With flags flying above him, President Arthur leads the
first walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.

After 14 years, the Brooklyn Bridge over the East River opened
in 1883, connecting the great cities of New York and Brooklyn
for the first time in history.  

Thousands of residents of Brooklyn and Manhattan Island turned
out to witness the dedication ceremony, which was presided
over by President Chester A. Arthur and New York Governor
Grover Cleveland.

Designed by the late John A. Roebling, the Brooklyn Bridge
was the largest suspension bridge ever built to that date.

Chester Alan Arthur (1829 – 1886)

Fireworks and flags marked the opening of the Brooklyn
Bridge.