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How the Ben Franklin Bridge was Named

The Ben Franklin Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Delaware River, connecting Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Camden, New Jersey. It was originally named the Delaware River Bridge, but was renamed the Ben Franklin Bridge in 1956.

The bridge was renamed in honor of Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father of the United States and a native of Philadelphia. Franklin was a scientist, inventor, diplomat, and statesman, and he played a key role in the American Revolution. He was also a strong advocate for cooperation between Philadelphia and Camden, and the bridge was seen as a symbol of that cooperation.

The renaming of the bridge was the result of a campaign by the Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper. The Inquirer launched the campaign in 1955, and it was successful in convincing the Delaware River Port Authority, which owns and operates the bridge, to rename it.

The renaming ceremony was held on January 17, 1956, on the 200th anniversary of Franklin’s death. The ceremony was attended by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Governor George M. Leader of Pennsylvania, and Governor Robert B. Meyner of New Jersey.

President Eisenhower spoke at the ceremony, and he praised Franklin as “one of the greatest Americans who ever lived.” He also said that the bridge was “a fitting tribute to the memory of a great man.”

The Ben Franklin Bridge is a beloved landmark that has stood the test of time. It is a reminder of the ingenuity and innovation of our ancestors, and it is a testament to the power of friendship and cooperation.

Here are some additional details about the naming of the Ben Franklin Bridge:

  • The campaign to rename the bridge was launched by the Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper.
  • The campaign was successful in convincing the Delaware River Port Authority, which owns and operates the bridge, to rename it.
  • The renaming ceremony was held on January 17, 1956, on the 200th anniversary of Franklin’s death.
  • President Dwight D. Eisenhower spoke at the ceremony, and he praised Franklin as “one of the greatest Americans who ever lived.”
  • The Ben Franklin Bridge is a fitting tribute to the memory of a great man.