Sunday, April 24, 2011

Baylor Hot Spots: The Waco Suspension Bridge



The Waco Suspension Bridge is located at University Parks Dr. between Franklin Ave. and Washington Ave.  The bridge is found in-between the Indian Spring Park on the west side, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park on the east side.

The Bridge was the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi when it was completed in 1870. It is complete with cable supplied by the John Roebling Co., who built the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.  The bridge assisted traders and travelers for well over a century.  It has been used for many community festivals and events including the 4th on the Brazos celebration and Brazos Nights concerts.
Although it may seem strange that the suspension bridge is a “Baylor Hot Spot,” many students use the bridge as a place to take photos before social functions or any other special events.
 
Tortilla tossing is also a common activity that takes place on the bridge. Tortilla tossing consists of throwing tortillas into the Brazos while standing on the suspension bridge and attempting to land them on two large concrete pillars.  Students tend to get extremely competitive, turning it into a sport.  One of my friends decided to get creative one night by throwing eggs instead of tortillas.  The egg tossing proved to be much easier because the wind was no longer able to interfere. 
Along with all the purposes the bridge serves, it’s ultimately just a beautiful and special part of Waco.  Many people come and never really experience what makes Waco so unique.  There is a lot of history to be discovered if people would take the time to find it.

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