Thousand Islands International Bridge Turns 75

ALEXANDRIA, N.Y. (AP) — A bridge connecting the United States and Canada in northern New York is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its opening by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Canadian prime minister.

The dedication ceremony for the Thousand Islands International Bridge was held on Aug. 18, 1938. FDR and Prime Minister William Mackenzie rode together across the new $3 million span in a Cadillac convertible during a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew a crowd of more than 25,000 people to Wellesley Island, on the St. Lawrence River in the Thousand Island region.

The bridge links Alexandria in Jefferson County to Ontario, Canada.

The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority is holding a public "open house" Saturday on the span's U.S. side to mark the 75th anniversary. The event features a vintage car show, live music and presentations.