The Bridges of Steeltown, USA

Part 2

 

Twilight brings out the character of Pittsburgh's steel bridges.

 

City boosters conceived their ambitious construction plans during the economic boom we call the Roaring Twenties.

 

City leaders saw the growth of the automobile in American culture. They believed that prosperity would spread and grow forever if people could move quickly and easily around the city.

 

By the time they finished their plans, the boom had turned to bust. Construction began at the start of the Great Depression.

 

No bridges could sustain the wild times of the 1920's, not while the economy of the entire world whithered.

 

Now we feel grateful for the legacy the bridges represent. Born in that boom and bust 70 years ago, today they scream, "Don't worry! Think big!"

 

We may not leave anything so tangible for our heirs, 70 years from now.

 

As the bridges joined Pittsburgh physically, maybe our legacy will be intangible but no less a cradle of community.

After all, here you are, looking at some guy's pictures of Pittsburgh.

Where are you right now? Have you posted any pictures on the web lately?

 

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