Today in History: The Brooklyn Bridge Opened to Travelers

The Brooklyn Bridge is a hybrid cable-stayed/suspension bridge in New York City, spanning the East River between the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Opened on May 24, 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was the first fixed crossing of the East River.

It was also the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time of its opening, with a main span of 1,595.5 feet.

Since its opening, the Brooklyn Bridge has undergone several reconfigurations, having carried horse-drawn vehicles and elevated railway lines until 1950.

To alleviate increasing traffic flows, additional bridges and tunnels were built across the East River including the Manhattan Bridge and the Williamsburg Bridge.

A major tourist attraction since its opening, the Brooklyn Bridge has become an icon of New York City. 

Over the years, the bridge has been used as the location of various stunts and performances, as well as several crimes and attacks. 

The Brooklyn Bridge has been designated a National Historic Landmark.