How the Golden Gate Bridge Became a Symbol of San Francisco

by Lina Al Quraishi, age 10

Spanning one of the largest and safest harbors in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge is 1.7 miles long and has been in use for 87 years. The Golden Gate Bridge opened on May 27th, 1937, linking San Francisco with Marin County, California. The bright red color of the bridge, known as "International Orange," allows for easy visibility even during foggy or rainy weather.

The person who designed the bridge was Joseph Strauss, the chief engineer responsible for its construction. He was assisted by a consultant, Irving Morrow, who contributed to the bridge’s Art Deco design and the choice of its iconic color. Although the construction saw tragedy, with 11 men losing their lives, the project was notable for its safety innovations, including a safety net that saved the lives of 19 workers.

The bridge is incredibly strong, with each tower supporting 210 million pounds. Today, many people use the Golden Gate Bridge daily for commuting and travel.

The Golden Gate Bridge is a symbol of San Francisco and has been featured in numerous movies. Its iconic color and architectural features make it a popular tourist attraction for visitors from around the world.

[Source: 100 Great Wonders of The World]