Status Updates From Chief Engineer: Washington ...

Wagner casts doubt on the popular (even contemporaneously) theory that Emily Roebling herself became Chief Engineer of the bridge. I’d agree that conclusion detracts from a leadership quality of the Colonel’s that most distinguishes him from his father: his ability to build great teams

I love Wagner noting the resonance of being a literal bridge-builder during the post Civil War reconstruction period. Huzzah for reflective editorial synthesis 🙌🏻 Also went to YouTube to watch videos of how to sink a caisson. 🤓

W. Roebling’s experience in the Civil War was both formative and not so formative; he was already accustomed to focusing on the work to numb out violence. Introduction of Emily into the story… their relationship is already so 😍 She brings out Washington’s sensitivity, which is evident in his letters but absent from his professional demeanor

John Roebling’s violent abuse of his wife and children is sickening. How destabilizing for a child to be raised in a home where his father lavishes strangers and himself with generosity while starving and beating his own family. How great things are accomplished by such evil men… with great talent comes even greater need for humility

Admittedly breezed a bit through the forward, such that I’ll need to look up again why Wagner is so particularly obsessed with W. Roebling (ie. has carried his picture on her wallet since her 20s?). But narratively off to a great start. Love her nomination of W. Roebling’s admirable skills as “practical rigor” and an unusual gift himself for reflective writing