The Eiffel Tower Foundation construction.
In 1887, Gustave Eiffel and his team began construction of what was then intended to be a temporary monument, to be completed in time for the 1889 World’s Fair in Paris, and commemorate the Centennial Anniversary of the French Revolution.
And during early construction, the critics of Paris labeled the hulking mass of pre-fabricated steel as an “ugly smokestack.” The artist and architecture communities of that day in Paris were particularly brutal. Previously, no structure constructed had ever exceeded 200 meters, much less 300. Most thought the task to be impossible, but Eiffel’s plans were for a structure 330 meters high, the tallest structure on earth, until completion of the Chrysler Building in New York in 1930.
A petition to criticize and challenge Eiffel was signed by several hundred prominent engineers and artists, published and sent to the Commissioner and Minister of Works leading the coming World’s Fair in 1887: “We, writers, painters, sculptors and passionate devotees of the hitherto untouched beauty of Paris, protest with all our strength, with all our indignation in the name of the slighted French taste, against the erection … of this useless and monstrous Eiffel Tower.”
Critics believed that the iron albatross would dwarf and diminish the Arch de Triumph, the grandeur of the Cathedral of Notre Dame, and even the majesty of the Louvre. One of the loudest voices and “haters” of that day, author Guy de Mauspassant, reportedly ate almost daily in a cafe within the tower, open while under construction, as it was almost the only spot in Paris from which the tower could not be seen, interrupting the vista and views of Paris and the Seine.
Yes, the City of Lights may have birthed the NIMBY movement, as well as proven that even among the brightest of minds, there are a few close-minded and dim bulbs. But Eiffel had a vision and a contract, and after two years, two months and five days, his creation was completed on March 31, 1889.
The Eiffel Tower as it stands today.
In response to his critics, Eiffel built a small private apartment, atop the third level of the tower, with some of the most beautiful views and sightlines in the world. Eiffel was not afraid of showing off his creation and reportedly entertained Thomas Edison, as well as rival Nikola Tesla, during his visits and time within the small suite, accessible only by lift. During Edison’s visit, he gifted Eiffel one of the first working phonographs.
It would not take long for Eiffel’s creation to become celebrated, and eventually the symbol of modern Paris. The challenge and obstacles along the way apparently made the tower, as well as Eiffel’s own reputation stronger.
As our nation’s high school, college and post-graduates cross stages and platforms and shift their tassels to enter the real world, many also have dreams and visions of purpose for what lies ahead. There will be obstacles along the way, the road to “Adulting” does not come with a handy series of You Tube videos. Be true to and trust yourself, surround your path with positive and supportive people and send me a postcard when you begin construction on your tower.
I will make a point and try to be there for the dedication. ConGRADulations and Sante!
Photos: courtesy The Eiffel Tower & French Moments
