Hello Lykkers! San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge stands tall and proud over the bay, drawing millions of visitors each year. Beyond its stunning beauty and architectural brilliance, there are some surprising facts about this landmark that even the most frequent visitors might not know.
Ready to explore some of its most fascinating secrets? Here's a deep dive into the history and quirky details of the Golden Gate Bridge.
1.Completed Ahead of Schedule
One of the most surprising facts about the Golden Gate Bridge is that it was completed ahead of schedule! Despite the construction beginning during the Great Depression, the bridge was finished in just four years—way ahead of its expected timeline. Not only that, but the project came in under budget. A true feat of engineering, given the challenges of the time.
2.Ferry Service Replaced
Before the Golden Gate Bridge, crossing from San Francisco to Marin County meant taking a ferry. This ferry service had been a part of daily life since the 1820s and carried people, cars, and goods across the bay for over 100 years. The Golden Gate Bridge completely changed that, replacing the ferries and offering a more direct, efficient route.
3.Named After a Strait
The name "Golden Gate" actually comes from the Golden Gate Strait, the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. But the name wasn't always associated with the bridge. The strait was given the name in 1846 by an American topographer, who compared it to the "Golden Horn" of Byzantium, a natural harbor in Turkey.
4.A Dark History
Not all facts about the Golden Gate Bridge are cheerful. While the bridge was under construction, safety standards were not as stringent as they are today. Tragically, 11 workers lost their lives during the building process. A safety net, however, saved 19 others who fell from great heights. These lives lost remind us of the bridge's darker past.
5.A Record-Breaking Feat
When the Golden Gate Bridge was finished in 1937, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, spanning an impressive 4,200 feet. It held that title for 27 years before being surpassed by the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in New York in 1964. Today, the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge in Japan holds the title, but the Golden Gate still remains one of the most iconic bridges globally.
6.The Color That Almost Wasn't
The Golden Gate Bridge isn't actually gold—it's painted in a striking shade called "International Orange." This vibrant color wasn't the original choice, though. Initially, the bridge was going to be painted black and yellow to help ships see it through the San Francisco fog. Luckily, designer Irving Morrow changed the plan, opting for a color that was not only more visible but also harmonized beautifully with the surrounding landscape.
7.A Bridge That Almost Didn't Happen
In the 1930s, engineers faced enormous challenges in trying to make the Golden Gate Bridge a reality. The San Francisco Bay, with its deep waters and fierce winds, seemed impossible to build a suspension bridge across. But visionaries like Michael O'Shaughnessy and Joseph Strauss refused to give up. Their determination paid off, and the bridge's construction remains a groundbreaking achievement in engineering history.
8.An Expensive Project
The total cost to build the Golden Gate Bridge was a staggering $35 million, which is equivalent to over $600 million today. Considering the size and complexity of the bridge, this price tag was substantial, but it paid off in the form of a landmark that has become a symbol of San Francisco and an engineering marvel.
9.Only Two People Could Shut It Down
Did you know that only two people in history have had the power to shut down the Golden Gate Bridge? One was President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the other was French President Charles de Gaulle. In 2014, the bridge was also closed temporarily for two black-tailed deer, who decided to take a leisurely stroll across during the busy evening commute!
10.A Grand Opening
On opening day in 1937, the city of San Francisco went all out in celebrating the bridge's completion. When President FDR pressed the telegraph key to officially open the bridge, the entire city erupted in celebration. Fire sirens blared and ships sounded their horns, making the occasion unforgettable.
11.Over a Billion Crossings
The Golden Gate Bridge has seen over a billion vehicles pass over its span since its opening. The one-billionth car crossed in 1985. Today, around 112,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily, contributing to its status as one of the busiest bridges in the world.
12.A Social Media Superstar
In today's digital age, the Golden Gate Bridge is a social media sensation. With over 2 million tagged photos, it ranks as the 9th most Instagrammed destination in the U.S. That's a lot of selfies! The bridge's stunning views and picturesque design make it a favorite spot for tourists and photographers alike.
From the groundbreaking construction to its incredible social media presence today, the Golden Gate Bridge continues to captivate millions worldwide. It's not just a bridge—it's a symbol of San Francisco, a testament to human ingenuity, and a must-see for anyone visiting the Bay Area.
