57. The Eventful Demise of Tacoma’s Iconic Bridge
Year: 1940
Location: Tacoma, Washington, USA
Company: Leon Moisseiff (lead engineer for the Washington State Toll Bridge Authority)
Estimated Damage Value: $636,000*
In 1940, Tacoma, Washington, witnessed the opening and quick collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Just four months post-opening, aerodynamic flutter from 42MPH winds razed the bridge, a disaster pivotal in shaping modern engineering and physics.

This tragic event spurred innovations in bridge engineering, pinpointing the critical flaw of solid sides blocking wind. Fortunately, no human lives were lost, yet the collapse saw the heartbreaking loss of Tubby, a beloved Cocker Spaniel, marking the day’s sorrow.