March 31, 1889 – The Opening of the Eiffel Tower

March 31

Copy of Eiffel Tower Photograph

To mark its completion, the Eiffel Tower had a special dedication ceremony on March 31, 1889, ahead of its official unveiling at the World’s Fair in May. Gustave Eiffel hosted the event, which was attended by French Prime Minister Pierre Tirard, esteemed guests, and the dedicated workforce who had contributed to its construction.

The 1889 Exposition Universelle was designed with the Eiffel Tower as its central focal point to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The Tower, standing 300 meters (984 feet) tall, symbolized the revolutionary spirit and the progress made in the past century. It was the world’s tallest man-made structure until the Chrysler Building in New York was finished in 1930. Built with more than 18,000 iron components and secured with 2.5 million rivets, the Tower was completed in a record two years, two months, and five days on March 31, 1889, and was recognized as a true technical marvel. Following the dedication, the U.S.-based Otis Elevator Company finished the glass-cage elevators and three observation platforms that were part of the Tower’s design. Gustave climbed the Tower by stairs, hoisted the French flag, and let fireworks light up the Paris sky because the elevators were not ready. Eiffel, who had withstood harsh criticism during the Tower’s design and construction, was celebrating his victory.

It is interesting to note that the Tower’s original purpose was temporary. Although it was supposed to be demolished in 1909, its usefulness as a radiotelegraph station helped to rescue it. During World War I, the Tower was crucial in intercepting enemy communications, contributing significantly to the war effort. This pivotal role in the war led to the Tower’s preservation. The Eiffel Tower stands tall against the Parisian sky today, having sparked numerous imitations and appeared in thousands of movies and photos.