Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Cheap & Cheerful Local Landmark -Franklin Hills

Everybody knows about the Hollywood Sign, and Watts Tower. A lesser known, but equally cherished landmark is the "Shakespeare Bridge". (Franklin Avenue between St George Street and Myra Avenue)

Designed by J.C. Wright the ravine-spanning bridge and gateway to Franklin Hills in Los Feliz was completed in 1926. Its brief 230-feet long span is supported by graceful Gothic arches and, at either end, two pair of what architects refer to as “aedicules"... a niche supporting two or more columns forming a frame or canopied housing.... um, sort of like the towers on top of a Gothic church. Could not find out why they did what they did, but who really cares, the effect is charming. So charming that when the bridge took a good shake in the Norhtridge Earthquake a major retrofit was organized. And our lovely little bridge has a cameo in the film "Dead Again."

The neighbors are used to visitors stopping to take pictures, just be considerate where you park.

To learn more than you ever cared to know about this darling structure, visit

http://bridgehunter.com/ca/los-angeles/53C0161/

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