Golden Gate Bridge

No state plaque stands at either end of the bridge. The one bronze at the north lookout is a poem, written by Judy Borello for the bridge's fiftieth birthday in 1987 and closing on a birthday wish. That birthday is remembered for something else. On 24 May 1987 the roadway was closed for a walk expected to draw 80,000 people; some 300,000 packed onto the span at once, and their weight flattened the arch of the deck. Engineers said afterward that the bridge had never been at risk.

What the plaque says

The Glorious Golden Gate Born and raised in San Francisco, the pride of "The Bear Flag State," my heart knows it's coming home, when I cross the Golden Gate. Greeting Marin County, she spans the ocean's roar; connecting to the headlands, rolling hills and rocky shore. Born of a dream; "It can't be done!" they cried, but gallantly she stands, a monument to man, his aspirations and his pride. Lofty spires reaching for the sky, royal arches beckon you; she's the nugget of the West Coast, queen of the Pacific blue. Circling her towers are crowns of silver mist; peeking through the fog banks, mister sun blows her a kiss. Smiling a sunny welcome to strangers out at sea; feeling her outstretched arms is coming home to me! We love you, Marin County, our emerald by the bay; and to the glorious Golden Gate, happy 50th birthday! Written by Judy Borello © 1987 Judith M. Borello

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Castillo de San Joaquín — 1.5 mi
• Presidio of San Francisco — 2.6 mi
• Palace of Fine Arts — 2.7 mi
• Angel Island — 3.4 mi