Plaque Rededicated Honoring Workers Who Lost Their Lives
Plaque Rededicated Honoring Workers Who Lost Their Lives
Two plaques on the Mackinac Bridge commemorating those who lost their lives building the bridge and those whose vision made the bridge possible were rededicated in a ceremony today. State Transportation Director James DeSana, members of the Mackinac Bridge Authority and the State Transportation Commission today joined labor representatives and family members at the rededication ceremony in front of the Visitor’s Center in Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City.
“The Mackinac Bridge stands as a testament to the courage and determination of those who built it. It is the crown jewel of Michigan,” said Mackinac Bridge Authority Executive Secretary Hank Lotoszinski. “The people who worked on that project, especially those who lost their lives, should be remembered.”
The plaques were moved to the pillar closest to the entrance of the Colonial Michilimackinac Visitor’s Center to be more visible to visitors. The Michigan State Transportation Commission held their official meeting in Mackinaw City this morning so that commissioners could attend today’s rededication.
On June 28, 1958, two 30 inch by 34 inch commemorative plaques were attached to Mackinac Bridge pillars south of the entrance to Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City as part of the formal dedication ceremonies of the Mackinac Bridge. One plaque honors the dignitaries responsible for financing and organizing this historic project and the other honors the five workers who lost their lives while constructing the Mackinac Bridge.
The refurbished plaques include the correct spelling of James LeSarge’s name, which was spelled “LaSarge” on the original plaque.
“As soon as I heard there was an error on the plaque, I thought it should be corrected,” said Lotoszinski. “I’m pleased that so many people could be here to share in today’s ceremony.”
