May 27, 2012 marks the diamond jubilee of the Golden Gate Bridge in San
Francisco. For the past 75 years, the 1.7-mile suspension bridge has not only
connected the northern tip of San Francisco to lush Marin County headlands, it
has also become one of the most recognized American icons. The yearlong
celebration is aptly titled “Bridging Us All.”
Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937. It was desperately
needed to alleviate the traffic from the ferries. Despite the Great Depression,
the areas surrounding San Francisco voted and passed the bond measure to pay
for the bridge by using their homes and businesses as collateral to finish the construction
of the Golden Bridge.
Marking the bridge’s 75 years in existence, 75 events are planned this year,
with a proper birthday bash over Memorial Day weekend. Numerous celebrations
ranging from outdoor concerts to historic exhibitions will take place along the
four-mile stretch of waterfront from Fort Point to Pier 39. A grand fireworks
befitting of the milestone cap the weekend.
