The Fascinating History of the Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge's iconic color, International Orange, was chosen for visibility in fog. Initially, it was just a primer, but the architect found the color highlighted the bridge's surroundings beautifully.

The first design by Joseph Strauss in 1921 was a massive, unsightly hybrid bridge. Criticized for lacking aesthetic value, it was redesigned by Leon Moisseiff, applying Art Deco elements and a more graceful suspension structure.

During construction, the safety net below saved 19 men, who called themselves the 'Halfway to Hell Club.' The net was a revolutionary safety measure at that time but couldn't save all – 11 workers perished.

Before the bridge, 'streetcar ferries' transported people and vehicles across the Golden Gate. The bridge's construction was initially opposed by ferry operators, but it ultimately led to a dramatic decline in ferry traffic.

The Golden Gate Bridge features a movable median barrier that can be adjusted for traffic flow, allowing more lanes to accommodate heavy traffic in a particular direction during peak hours.

Architect Irving Morrow contributed to the bridge's design by adding Art Deco elements, specifying lighting, and designing the pedestrian railings, emphasizing the bridge's elegance and making it a worldwide icon.

During World War II, the bridge was camouflaged with a net to protect against enemy ships and airplanes. The measures included dimming the lights of the bridge at night.