Saturday, January 05, 2008

The Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge, a recognizable structure to, I'd say, 95% of the world's population, is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful bridges in the world for both its structural design and its aesthetic appeal. Bringing flocks of tourists from all over the world to bask in its beauty, it's easily the most photographed bridge in the world. It was declared one of the modern Wonders of the World by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Construction of this internationally-famous bridge began 75 years ago today.

Painting the Bridge is an ongoing task. Despite its red appearance, the color selected for the Bridge is actually called International Orange. Can you imagine what it would have been like if one of the other two suggested colors was chosen? Steel Gray or Carbon Black. Phew. Someone made a good decision!

Its fog horns, which put me to sleep at night my entire childhood, operate, on average, two and a half hours a day. During March, you'll hear them for less than half an hour a day. However, during the Bay Area's foggy season, which is July through October, they sound over five hours a day.

To some, the Bridge is the most amazing structure ever built. To others, it is a freeway to get to San Francisco from Marin County. To me, it is a little piece of home.

No comments: