Its richness is perhaps explained by the design concept of the structure: 'May this bridge,' declares a bronze plaque on the Cambridge side, 'connecting the College Yard and playing fields of Harvard, be an ever present reminder to students passing over it of loyalty to country and Alma Mater. '<ref>Shand-Tucci, Douglas, "Harvard University: An Architectural Tour" (pp. 94-95)</ref>}}
The bridge's significance is likely due to its design concept: 'May this bridge,' a bronze plaque on the Cambridge side states, 'linking the College Yard and playing fields of Harvard, serve as a constant reminder to students crossing it of loyalty to country and Alma Mater. '<ref>Shand-Tucci, Douglas, "Harvard University: An Architectural Tour" (pp. 94-95)</ref>>