The Bay Bridge Troll is a whimsical piece of folklore in civil engineering—a steel figure created by artist Bill Roan and secretly installed by ironworkers following the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake repairs on the San Francisco Bay Bridge. It became a quirky guardian of the bridge, hidden from public view. The original troll was later replaced with a new version when the eastern span of the bridge was reconstructed. This figure not only exemplifies a creative blend of artistry and engineering but also serves as a symbol of the resilience and spirit of those who build and maintain vital infrastructure
The Bay Bridge Troll, welded onto the Bay Bridge’s east span in 1989 by ironworkers, stands as a fusion of myth and metalwork. In Nordic lore, trolls are known as master builders and guardians, and this iron troll by Bill Roan has become a symbol of good fortune for the Bay Bridge. As the bridge underwent changes, so did the fate of the troll, with its future location after the span’s closure in 2013 being a topic of intrigue and speculation among enthusiasts and the public alike. This artifact exemplifies the intersection of cultural mythology and the tangible legacy of engineering.
The Bay Bridge Troll’s story captures the essence of engineering creativity and tradition. It’s not just about the physical structures we build, but the narratives and legends they inspire. This troll, hidden away from the public’s eye, has watched over the San Francisco Bay Bridge for decades. As it moves into the next chapter of its life, it remains a beloved part of Bay Area folklore, symbolizing the hidden yet indispensable role of those who construct and care for the infrastructure that underpins our society.