The Hope Memorial Bridge stretches nearly a mile across the Cuyahoga River in downtown Cleveland, standing just outside of the ballpark. It first opened in 1932 and was originally known as the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge. Designed by engineers Wilbur J. Watson & Associates and Frank Walker, the bridge was curved at the lower edge of its trusses to give it an arched appearance. The major architectural feature, however, is four massive stone pylons of eight figures representing the Guardians of Traffic, which were designed by Walker and sculpted by Henry Hering. Each Guardian holds a different vehicle including a covered wagon, stagecoach and 1930s automobile.
BRIDGING A CONNECTION
In the early 1980s, the bridge was closed for repair and upon reopening, it was renamed the Hope Memorial Bridge in honor of Bob Hope’s father who was a Cleveland stonemason. Recently, the Guardians have come to symbolize the spirit of Cleveland – resilient, hard working and loyal.
While inspired by the iconic sculptures of the Hope Memorial Bridge, our Guardians name is a reflection of the traits we, as Clevelanders, take pride in the most—fierce loyalty, unwavering support, and a resolve to stand side by side through thick and thin. As a team, as an organization, as citizens of Cleveland, we hope to protect and preserve all that we love about this city.
Script Guardians
The Script Guardians wordmark is an evolution of our script wordmark of the last 75 years. It is directly inspired by the architecture of the Hope Memorial Bridge, and the sharp, crisp angles of the letters mimic the trusses of the bridge's underside.
Diamond C & Bridge Print
The new Diamond C stands tall – just as the Guardians of Traffic stand watch over our ballpark and city – and draws from the ascending diamond motifs at the top of each Guardian pylon.
Our Bridge Print alphabet is derived from the Diamond C and will be used as a supporting element on our home and away jerseys. The new font represents the unique characteristics of Cleveland with angular letters and numbers that mimic the architecture of the bridge and the Guardians of Traffic.
Guardians Fastball
The Guardians Fastball logo embodies what it means to be a Cleveland Guardian in its strong, yet simple design. It is inspired by both the helmets and wings of Hope Memorial Bridge’s Guardians statues that keep watch over the city.