5 Things You May Have Not Known About The Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is iconic. There’s no doubt about that. It’s basically our quintessential tourist attraction. It’s the Statue of Liberty of the West Coast. It’s the thing you’re most likely to see on a postcard in a gas station 50 miles away.
But besides its status as a tourist attraction, here are some facts that most Bay Area locals don’t know off the top of their heads when talking about the bridge.
#1. Construction and Completion:
The Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937. It took four years to build, with construction starting on January 5, 1933, and ending on April 19, 1937. It was an engineering marvel of its time and held the record for the longest suspension bridge main span in the world until 1964.
#2. Iconic Color
The bridge’s distinctive color is known as “International Orange.” This color was chosen because it provides visibility in San Francisco’s frequent fog and complements the natural surroundings. The color was initially intended to be a temporary primer. Also it’s not gold.
#3. Length and Dimensions:
The Golden Gate Bridge spans a total length of 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers). The main span between the towers is 4,200 feet (1,280 meters), and the total height of the towers is 746 feet (227 meters) above the water.
#4.Safety Nets:
During construction, safety nets were placed beneath the bridge, which saved the lives of 19 men who became known as the “Halfway to Hell Club.” Despite this, 11 workers lost their lives during the construction of the bridge.
#5. Suicides (trigger warning)
While the bridge’s legendary status brings people from all over the world to marvel at its beauty, it also hold the title of being one of the most popular suicide spot in the world. It’s hard to know why the Golden Gate Bridge is such a common spot for people to end their lives, but if you or anyone you know is struggling, help is available.
For me, the Golden Gate Bridge is like North Beach – yes, it’s crowded and filled with tourists, but it’s also fucking awesome. Even if you’re a jaded local, the short drive across the bridge into Marin may be all that’s needed to get you into a better mood. Despite it’s popularity with people contemplating ending their lives, the Golden Gate Bridge’s beauty is definitely an argument that life is worth living.
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Howdy! My name is Katy Atchison and I'm an Associate Editor for Broke-Ass Stuart.
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