The Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the world, is considered to be an engineering marvel and is an iconic symbol of San Francisco. But have you ever wondered why this grand structure is called the Golden Gate Bridge? This article will answer that question and explore the history and significance behind this iconic bridge.
So keep reading to learn more about why this bridge is called the Golden Gate Bridge!
Why is it Called the Golden Gate Bridge?
The graceful suspension bridge spanning the San Francisco Bay has become an iconic symbol of California. But why is it named the Golden Gate Bridge, and not something else?The bridge was officially opened on May 28, 193 After months of delay due to the Great Depression, spanning 4,200 feet across the opening of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge became the world’s longest and highest suspension bridge.
History Before & After the Bridge’s Opening
Prior to the construction of the bridge, the area commonly referred to as the Golden Gate was bordered by marshland and thick fog. The only way to traverse the area was taking a ferry or a boat.Joseph Strauss, now known as the father of the bridge, proposed the building of the bridge to San Francisco’s board of supervisors in the 1920s. At first, the proposal was rejected, with officials wary of the project’s $30 million price tag. Finally, with financial assistance and support from the Roosevelt administration, Strauss was finally able to transform his dream into reality.
Before breaking ground, he also pushed a plan to make the bridge golden. Strauss and his team decided to paint the bridge a reddish-orange color called International Orange, which was a bold choice at the time.
Other Names Considered for the Golden Gate Bridge
Other names for the bridge were briefly considered, such as the Bay Bridge, the San Francisco-Oakland Bridge and Strauss Bridge.Even though Bay Bridge was the popular choice, it couldn’t be used because it was the same name as the Bay Bridge in San Diego. Strauss Bridge was out of the question because it seemed too egotistical.
The project’s chief engineer, Charles Ellis, and inspirational bridge architect, Irving Morrow, eventually chose Golden Gate Bridge – a name that was voted in by popular demand. The name Golden Gate was suggested by resident Lillie Hitchcock Coit, as it was a reference to an ancient Greek term that described the entrance of a harbor.