PHOTOS: The Making of Michigan’s Mackinac Bridge, 1955 to 1957

Since November 1st, 1957 Michigan residents and tourists from around the world have crossed one of the Great Lake States' most iconic structures. Seen for miles in all directions the roadway of this span sits as high as 200 feet from the surface of the Straits of Mackinac.

Is The Mackinac Bridge the Longest Suspension Bridge in the World?

While not THE longest suspension bridge in the world it was among the 4 longest in the world until 1998, when more and more were built. As of now, Michigan's Mighty Mac is the 24th longest in the world and 3 longest when measured by the distance between suspension towers.

Related: You've Been Lied To Your Entire Life! There Are Only 4 Great Lakes

The longest suspension bridge in the world honor is the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in Japan, which has a main length span of 6,532 feet. Though that is less than the total length of the Mackinac Bridges total of 5, the Akashi Kaikyo has a longer main span.

Live Cams Pictures of the Might Mac Refreshed

Wondering what the weather is like on the Mighty Mac? Maybe you're wanting to catch a sunset on the Straits of Mackinac? Log onto the Mackinac Bridge Authorities website, a new photo arrives every 60 seconds.

Take a look at this postcard-like shot I caught while putting together this article:

A lot of iron, cable, concrete, labor, and lives went into the making of this iconic mega-structure. Here's a photographic look into the construction of Michigan's Mackinac Bridge.