The Green-Wood Historic Fund commemorates the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge, 125 years ago to the day, May 24 at 1 p.m., with a special trolley tour of the final resting places of the men who played crucial roles in the construction of this renowned New York City landmark. Among them are:
William Kingsley, the primary proponent of a “great bridge” across the East River. He became the Bridge’s general contractor and chairman of its board of trustees.
Colonel Julius Walker Adams, a veteran of the Civil War and an engineer, who put together an estimate for the Bridge’s construction;
Various trustees of the Brooklyn Bridge Comapny, including Boss Tweed and Henry Pierrepont;
Henry Cruse Murphy, the “Moses” of the Brooklyn Bridge, who led the project only to die just before its completion;
George McNulty, who was 21 years old when he was hired as a Bridge engineer. He became one of its principle players responsible for the Brooklyn terminal, anchorage, and approaches.
In addition, four out of the five men who spoke at the ceremony marking the opening of the Bridge on May 24, 1883 call Green-Wood their final resting place.
Admission to the trolley tour is $20. All proceeds benefit the Historic Fund, which preserves and restores the cemetery’s historic monuments and sculptures.
Space on the trolley is limited; you must call 718-768-7300 in advance to reserve a space or for additional information.
Meet at Main Gate of the cemetery at 25th Street at Fifth Avenue in Brooklyn.
