Brooklyn Bridge: Tiffany & Co. Engraved Invitation to the Opening Ceremonies

Title:
1883 Original Invitation to the Opening of the Brooklyn Bridge – Issued by Tiffany & Co.

Description:
Presented here is an extraordinary and original printed invitation to the historic Opening Ceremonies of the New York and Brooklyn Bridge, held on Thursday, May 24, 1883, at 2 o'clock P.M. This invitation was personally addressed to Mr. Amas L. Hapkins in elegant handwritten script and features a finely engraved vignette of the completed bridge spanning the East River, with steamboats and sailing vessels below. The top border bears the coats of arms of both New York and Brooklyn, and at the bottom, the invitation proudly credits TIFFANY & CO. as the printer, showcasing its premium craftsmanship.

The card lists key committee members and officials, including:

• William C. Kingsley, President of the Board of Trustees

• Franklin Edson, Mayor of New York

• Seth Low, Mayor of Brooklyn

• Washington A. Roebling, Chief Engineer and son of original designer John A. Roebling

Printed on heavy card stock with light age toning, this invitation remains in very good condition with only minor tape remnants on the reverse, suggesting prior display or preservation efforts. The engraved scene and calligraphy are sharp, with excellent contrast throughout.

Historical Context:
The opening of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883 marked a transformative moment in American urban and engineering history. Spanning 1,595 feet, the suspension bridge linked Manhattan and Brooklyn for the first time, altering the physical and cultural landscape of New York City. Designed by John A. Roebling and completed by his son, Washington Roebling, after John’s untimely death, the bridge was hailed as a marvel of 19th-century engineering and became a global symbol of industrial progress.

The dedication ceremony was a grand civic affair attended by dignitaries, including President Chester A. Arthur and New York Governor Grover Cleveland. That this invitation was engraved by Tiffany & Co. adds further elegance and prestige, reflecting the bridge’s significance to the nation.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This original 1883 invitation to the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge is more than an ephemeral artifact—it is a firsthand witness to one of America's greatest architectural triumphs. With exquisite design by Tiffany & Co. and association with historic figures like Washington Roebling and Franklin Edson, it holds great value for collectors of transportation history, 19th-century Americana, and urban development. A rare opportunity to own a tangible link to one of the most enduring icons of New York City.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.