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The original Tacoma Narrows Bridge structure known as 'Galloping Gertie' crumbles into the water Nov. 7, 1940. It collapsed during a windstorm and was rebuilt and completed in 1950. (JAMES BASHFORD/Staff file)

Galloping Gertie, Tacoma bridge famed for failing, receives praise

Tacoma’s famous failed bridge, Galloping Gertie, has had more than its share of bad press since its spectacular collapse into the Tacoma Narrows 72 years ago.

Galloping Gertie HEADLINES
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Unlike Galloping Gertie, new bridge will fend off wind
Published August 11th, 2009 - 10:36AM
Rapid currents are the big challenge for engineers designing the foundations of the new Tacoma Narrows bridge. Above water, the main concern is wind. Wind, after all, is what set the first bridge over the Narrows dancing the fandango and then flying to pieces Nov. 7, 1940. Compared to what the Narrows is capable of, the storm that downed Galloping Gertie was a minor blow, with prevailing winds of just 42 mph.
Tacoma's Titanic: Galloping Gertie's world of wonders
Published August 11th, 2009 - 10:36AM
Bob Mester figures he's scuba dived onto the ruins of Galloping Gertie - the first bridge across the Tacoma Narrows, blown apart in 1940 - more than 300 times.
Tacoma's Titanic: True or false: Gertie victim Tubby had only 3 legs
Published August 11th, 2009 - 10:36AM
Galloping Gertie.
Tacoma's Titanic: Witness to a violent death
Published August 11th, 2009 - 10:33AM
I saw the Narrows Bridge die today, and only by the grace of God escaped dying with it.
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