Finlay Bridge in Medicine Hat, Alberta

On May 14, 1908 Finlay Bridge officially opened. The green truss bridge that spans the South Saskatchewan River in Medicine Hat, Alberta is a locally recognized heritage site, and since it was completed over a century ago, it has remained a symbol of the city. At 277 metres long and 10 metres wide, it was the largest bridge in Western Canada when it was built. Few local landmarks have maintained their practical significance and usage for the entirety of their lifetimes, but Finlay Bridge remains an artery to Medicine Hat's downtown core to this day.

Finlay Bridge was named after William T. Finlay who was one of Medicine Hat's early mayors from 1900-1902. Finlay was also Medicine Hat's first MLA when the province of Alberta was formed in 1905 and became Alberta's first Minister of Agriculture at that time.

Over the years Finlay Bridge has undergone refurbishment, including a complete deck and paint rehabilitation in 2009. The installation of brand new decorative LED lighting above the bridge and along the piers was also completed in 2011. Finlay Bridge is the support structure for the main Shaw Cross Canada fibre optic cable, proving that while the requirements for the bridge have evolved over the years, it is no less relevant today.

Construction of Finlay Bridge in 1908.

A Stay At the Watergate Hotel in Washington DC

Completed in 1971, the Watergate Complex is one of the more well known, prestigious, and storied addresses in Washington DC. Comprised of offices, residences, and the iconic Watergate Hotel, the property and its name became immortalized following the Watergate Scandal leading to President Nixon's resignation in 1974.

The Watergate Hotel reopened in 2016 after almost a decade of closure and a $100 million renovation that embraced both the prestige and scandal associated with the name.

In addition to the upscale finishes, you don't have to look too hard to find references to wiretaps, President Nixon, and nods to notable past residents. These small touches give the Watergate Hotel its distinct character and are a clever and casual way of contextualizing the history. Located next door to the Kennedy Center, and with unmatched views overlooking the Potomac River, the Watergate Hotel is still a conversation starter.