Someone Fell Down a Manhole Today and a Look at Some Other New York Urban Legends That Have Really Happened
The Brooklyn Bridge Collapsing: We actually know people who are afraid to go across bridges, for fear of structural collapse. This has never been one of our fears, but it definitely exists. And when you consider the fact that the Brooklyn Bridge is well over 120-years-old and still serves as a vital interborough artery, it’s easy enough to fear what would happen if it succumbed to structural issues. Well, ok. This never actually happened. But! Way, way back in 1883, pedestrians on the Brooklyn Bridge thought it was going to collapse and stampeded in an attempt to escape, causing at least one fatality and numerous injuries. And as Untapped Cities notes, “In true old-time New York fashion, pickpockets came to rob the helpless victims.” Whatta town.