The Guardians of Traffic 🌉

If you’ve ever driven across the Hope Memorial Bridge, you’ve definitely seen them—those towering, stone-faced figures gripping old-school cars like they’re in some ancient, slow-motion drag race.

These are the Guardians of Traffic, and while they may look like they’re just standing around being all majestic, Clevelanders know they’ve got a few secrets up their stone sleeves.

Photo by benjamin lehman on Unsplash

So, What’s Their Deal?

Back in 1932, when Art Deco was all the rage and Cleveland was flexing its industrial muscles, architect Frank Walker and sculptor Henry Hering gave us these 43-foot-tall traffic protectors, and were carved by mostly Italian immigrants.

They were meant to symbolize progress and transportation, but let’s be real—if you saw one of these guys in a dark alley, you’d probably apologize for driving too fast and promise to use your turn signal forever.

Gif by much on Giphy

The Superstitions (A.K.A. Why You Should Acknowledge Them)

Clevelanders have developed a bit of a tradition and lore when it comes to the Guardians. Some say giving them a nod, a wave, or a quick honk as you drive by brings good luck. 🍀

Ignore them, and you might find yourself stuck behind a driver going 10 under the speed limit all the way to your destination. 😅 Coincidence? Maybe. But are you willing to risk it?

There’s also a weird rumor that the Guardians have ever-so-slightly moved over the years, like they’re adjusting to keep a better eye on traffic. 👻 Logical explanation: It’s just how shadows and angles work.  Fun explanation: They are, in fact, alive and making sure we all behave on the road. Choose your reality. 💁‍♀️😆

Gif by laff_tv on Giphy

But it’s not all supernatural weirdness when it comes to the Guardians. Here are some odd facts about them you may not know:

• They’re Not Actually Guardians of Traffic
  Though they are called the "Guardians of Traffic," their official role is symbolic—they represent the history of ground transportation, not traffic control.

• Each Statue Has a Different Expression
  The four statues have very different facial expressions, ranging from stoic to fierce. Some people believe the varying expressions represent the moods of the city—after all, Cleveland’s weather can be pretty moody!

• The Bridge They’re on Was Named for Bob Hope’s Dad

• He served Cleveland as a stonemason and so the bridge was renamed in the 80s to honor him!

• They Have a Secret 'Fifth' Guardian
  Although only four statues are visible to the public, there's actually a fifth one (or 9th depending on your point of view) that’s hidden. It’s said to be located in the shadows of the bridge, and it’s a mysterious subject that only a few have reportedly spotted.

• They’re Taller Than You Think
  At 43 feet tall, the Guardians are massive—taller than a 4-story building! So, if you thought they were just a cute little decoration on the bridge, think again. These statues are giants in both stature and significance.

• Many Clevelanders Used to Hate Them!
  In 1976 they were listed on the National Historic Register of Paces when engineer Albert S. Porter threatened to tear them down saying that ‘Those columns are monstrosities and should be torn down and forgotten. There is nothing particularly historic about any one of them.’ Talk about being on the wrong side of history. 😆

From Statues to Sports Mascots

These stone-faced legends have seen it all—Cleveland’s rise and fall as an industrial giant, the boom of downtown, and more disappointing Browns seasons than we care to count.

In 2021, they even got promoted from “cool old statues” to the inspiration for Cleveland’s MLB team name, officially becoming the Cleveland Guardians. Not bad for a couple of bridge decorations.

So next time you cross the Hope Memorial Bridge, give the Guardians a little respect. A nod. A wave. A honk. Who knows? They might just reward you with a green light… or at least keep the traffic gods from cursing your morning commute.

See you in your inbox!

-Amy & The Clevelandish Crew 😊

‍