The Golden Gate Bridge: Vision, Genius and Expert Care
"The Golden Gate!" Army explorer John Charles Fremont named the entrance to San Francisco Bay in 1846. His Majesty Emperor Joshua Abraham Norton decreed in 1869 that a bridge be built “…across the Golden Gate to Sausalito Ridge.” Work finally began 64 years later.
The vision and genius of Engineer Joseph Strauss together with the dedicated and fearless bridge workers, began construction 5 January1933. They completed the longest suspension bridge in the world in 1937. Innovative banker Amadeo P. Giannini assured success. In 1932, during the Great Depression, his Bank of America purchased the entire $35 million bond issue needed for construction.
The magnificent Golden Gate Bridge opened 27 May 1937, with grand ceremony, to a huge crowd of pedestrians and autos. Since it’s opening, the resourceful staff of skilled bridge workers have maintained and serviced the bridge to preserve its integrity. As a result of that careful work, the bridge thrives today in pristine condition.
The Golden Gate Bridge, painted international orange, is an icon of Northern California and the world. Tourists, bicyclists, motorists and walkers marvel at its graceful architecture spanning the deep waters of the Golden Gate.
Marker can be reached from Lincoln Boulevard west of Chrissy Field Avenue.
Courtesy hmdb.org
