Other editions of book Building America - Brooklyn Bridge

When the Brooklyn Bridge was completed in 1883, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and the first to use steel rather than iron cable. Its twin stone towers were taller than any building in either city, except the spire of New York's Trinity Church. But all this glory came at a price. The bridge had taken 14 years to build, and cost $15 million. More than 20 people--including the bridge's designer--had died during construction.