Bridges are more than just functional structures, they’re symbols of progress, engineering innovation, and the spirit of connection. From the earliest wooden crossings to the majestic steel giants of the 19th century, American bridges have long been a testament to the nation’s growing infrastructure and vision for a connected future. In this collection of historical photos, we step back in time to explore 15 iconic bridges that have stood the test of time, each with its own story to tell. Whether crossing rivers, connecting cities, or marking pivotal moments in history, these bridges offer a glimpse into America’s rich architectural legacy. Here are 15 bridges from America’s past.
1. The Old North Bridge.
Built in 1775, this wooden bridge is a significant early American structure, famous for being the site of the first battle of the American Revolution.
2. The Brooklyn Bridge.
Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River, it was an engineering marvel of its time, designed by John A. Roebling and later completed by his son, Washington Roebling..
3. Golden Gate Bridge.
Opened in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge is an internationally recognized symbol of San Francisco. Known for its Art Deco design and distinctive orange-red color, it spans the Golden Gate Strait, the entrance to the San Francisco Bay.
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4. George Washington Bridge.
Completed in 1931, the George Washington Bridge is a double-decked suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Fort Lee, New Jersey.
5. Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
Completed in 1940, the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge became infamous for its collapse just four months after opening due to aeroelastic flutter, a phenomenon never before observed.
6. The Poughkeepsie Bridge.
One of the earliest steel bridges in the U.S., this bridge was the longest in the world when it opened, spanning the Hudson River.
7. The Bear Mountain Bridge.
Completed in 1924, the Bear Mountain Bridge spans the Hudson River, connecting Bear Mountain State Park with the west side of the river in the town of Cortlandt. As one of the oldest suspension bridges in the U.S., it was an essential link for travelers going to and from the park.
8. Hell Gate Bridge.
Completed in 1916, the Hell Gate Bridge is a steel cantilever bridge that spans the Hell Gate section of the East River, connecting the Bronx and Queens.
9. New River Gorge Bridge.
Opened in 1977, the New River Gorge Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the United States. Spanning the New River Gorge, it is one of the highest vehicular bridges in the world and is a popular spot for BASE jumpers.
10. Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge.
Opened in 1855, this was the first bridge to span the Niagara River Gorge, linking the United States and Canada. It was a major achievement in bridge engineering at the time and became a key route for travelers and freight.
11. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
Completed in 1964, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge connects the boroughs of Staten Island and Brooklyn.
12. The Arlington Memorial Bridge.
Completed in 1932, the Arlington Memorial Bridge connects the National Mall with Arlington Cemetery across the Potomac River. The bridge’s design is inspired by classical Roman architecture and provides a majestic gateway to the cemetery, which serves as the final resting place for many U.S. veterans.
13. The Bixby Creek Bridge.
Completed in 1932, the Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges on the Pacific Coast Highway. This arch bridge, set against the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and has become a symbol of California’s scenic beauty.
14. The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.
Finished in 1936, the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge was the longest two-tiered bridge in the world at the time. It connects San Francisco with the East Bay and played a crucial role in the development of the Bay Area. The bridge’s twin spans are iconic, especially when viewed from the San Francisco skyline.
15. Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge.
Opened in 1961, the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge crosses the Potomac River, connecting the District of Columbia with Maryland. It serves as an important transportation route and has been expanded and updated over the years to accommodate the growing traffic demands of the Washington metropolitan area.
