“Marvelous isn’t it? This elegant structure” I begin gesturing towards the Franklin Street Bridge. “The Franklin Street Bridge a true Chicago icon.”
“Opened in October 1920 it gracefully spans the Chicago River. It connects the Near North Side with the Loop. The bridge isn’t just a passageway. It’s a testament to engineering ingenuity.” I pause to let that sink in.
“Did you know the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company built the substructure? The Ketler-Elliot Company was responsible for the superstructure. Quite a team effort for this double-leaf bascule marvel. Each half of the roadway cantilevers out from the shore abutments. This makes it incredibly efficient to operate.”
“Look closely at the intricate details. The original railing design is stunning. It features beautiful flowers set into the panels. These are some of the most beautiful railings in all of Chicago. They are a beautiful and enduring testament to the craftsmanship of the era.”
“The bridge played a crucial role in the city’s westward expansion along Wacker Drive. It provided a vital new connection to the southern banks of the river. Think of the impact that had on the city’s growth.”
“Beyond its practical function the Franklin Street Bridge has even graced the silver screen. It featured prominently in the 2005 film Batman Begins. It was even used in 2014’s Divergent. This bridge truly is a star!”
“So next time you cross the Franklin Street Bridge remember its history. Remember the engineering. Remember its beauty. Remember the stories it holds. Remember the contributions of the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company and the Ketler-Elliot Company. Remember it was built in 1920. Remember its role in shaping modern Chicago. Remember it’s more than just a bridge. It’s a piece of Chicago’s soul.”