We all know that Pittsburgh is the City of Bridges, inching out Venice for the most bridges of any city in the world. In fact, the Burgh lays claim to 446 of them. Many of us use some of these bridges as we travel to and from the city, but how often do we really to stop to admire the architecture and rich history of the structures? Today, stroll back through the pages of time as we take a peek into the history of the oldest, and perhaps most remarkable, steel bridge in Pittsburgh.

Connecting downtown Pittsburgh to the South Side, the original Smithfield Street Bridge, then known as the Monongahela Bridge, was built in 1818.
Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
In fact, some historians believe that the bridge was actually the first to cross over any of Pittsburgh's three rivers.
Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
However, the Monongahela Bridge, which was made predominately of wood, met its end during the Great Fire of Pittsburgh in 1845. (It took only 10 minutes to burn down!)
Wikipedia/Public Domain
In 1846, John Augustus Roebling began rebuilding a new and an improved Monongahela Bridge, this time christened the Smithfield Street Bridge.
Wikipedia/Steve Morgan
Did you know that Roebling later designed New York's Brooklyn Bridge?

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However, Roebling's Smithfield Street Bridge - a wire cable suspension bridge - had to carry heavy traffic over the river, eventually requiring a new, redesigned, and sturdier bridge.
Wikipedia/David Wilson
Made of steel, the third and current Smithfield Street Bridge debuted in March of 1883.
Flickr/Mariano Mantel
Today, the Smithfield Street Bridge, which is also the oldest steel bridge in the United States, is a National Historic Landmark.
Flickr/R.A. Killmer
Of course, Pittsburghers regularly drive over the Smithfield Street Bridge, but it's also worth walking over for the spectacular views of the river and of the city skyline.
Flickr/Chris

So, what’s your favorite bridge in Pittsburgh? (Check out these 10 bridges in Pittsburgh if you’re not sure). Then, join the conversation in the comments!

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