Michigan Avenue Bridge Opening Nearly Marred by Accident in 1920
On May 14, 1920, the Michigan Avenue Bridge, now known as the DuSable Bridge, was officially opened in Chicago. The event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mayor William Hale 'Big Bill' Thompson and Charles H. Wacker, head of the Chicago Plan Commission. The celebration was almost disrupted when a lumber steamer, the Herman H. Hetler, signaled for the bridge to open while four automobiles were still on it. Bridge Tender George B. McLaughlin began raising the south span, unaware of the vehicles. Policemen quickly intervened by firing their revolvers to alert McLaughlin, who stopped the machinery in time to prevent the cars from falling. This quick action saved the occupants from potential injuries. 
