ST. IGNACE, MI – An auction of five, two-ton sections of the original steel grating from the Mackinac Bridge deck is allowing enthusiasts and admirers to take home a piece of history.

The Mighty Mac connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas is the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world. It opened to traffic on Nov. 1, 1957 – nearly 64 years ago.

Each of the five grate sections are 5 1/2 feet by 38 feet and 5 inches deep, and weigh about 4,000 pounds. They are up for auction separately. Bidding on each piece started at $20 and climbed close to $800 by Tuesday afternoon, Sept. 14.

“Condition is used with corrosion and section loss appropriate to steel that is 60 years old,” the auction description says.

The grating was originally coated with lead-based paint. While most of it has been worn away, buyers will be required to sign a hold harmless agreement regarding the lead paint and the condition of the grating itself.

Find the auction here. Bidding closes Monday morning, Sept. 27.

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