The Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge Basics

The Brooklyn Bridge is a suspension bridge that crosses the East River in New York City. It connects Brooklyn and New York. John Roebling came up with the idea while crossing the river on a ferry boat. At the time, many people did not think that making the bridge was possible because of the height needed for the ships and boats to pass beneath the bridge.

In the winter of 1867, many people’s views on the bridge changed after the river froze over. People in Brooklyn were unable to get to their jobs in New York City - people now wanted the bridge. Completion of the bridge took fourteen years – finally opening on May 24, 1883.

Brooklyn Bridge Facts

Since 1883, the granite towers and steel cables of the Brooklyn Bridge have offered a safe and scenic passage to millions of commuters and tourists, trains and bicycles, pushcarts and cars.

Designed by John Roebling, the bridge’s construction took 14 years, involved 600 workers and cost $15 million (more than $320 million in today’s dollars). The length of the Brooklyn Bridge at the main span is 1,597 feet.

At least two dozen people died in the process, including its original designer. Now more than 125 years old, this iconic feature of the New York City skyline still carries roughly 150,000 vehicles and pedestrians every day.

Brooklyn Bridge

Rumors Just six days after the opening on May 30, 1883, a

rumor spread that the Brooklyn Bridge was going to collapse. This caused a panic and stampede that crushed and killed 12 people.

In order to squelch such rumors and demonstrate the stability of the bridge, P.T. Barnum (of the Barnum and Bailey Circus) led a parade of 21 elephants across the bridge on May 17, 1884. Today, the Brooklyn Bridge is a treasured landmark and a symbol of New York City.

How suspension bridges are made

Brooklyn Bridge

Mrs. Hludzik’s Example #1

Periods 1, 2, & 5