Part 1, Chapter 4 Summary and Analysis

"Father and Son" portrays the transition of power from John to Washington Roebling. Long planned by the old man, it occurs in a dramatic and tragic manner, leaving questions whether Washington will be up to dealing with the greedy politicians that back the Great Bridge.

The amiable Bridge Party ends Apr. 20, 1869, and preparation for building picks up. John Roebling hires Col. William Paine, who is self-taught in engineering and the Union Army's leading topographical engineer. With "Wash" Roebling, Paine marks the route steadily inland from the river, noting how traffic will have to be routed and what buildings will have to come down. John leaves Trenton rarely, but is kept posted by Wash, who feels at liberty to speak for his father on nearly everything.

On June 12, John Roebling meets his consultants a last time and Wash prints 500 copies...