Love Padlocks

During a recent stroll around our town, my better half and I discovered a large grouping of padlocks attached to a fence that ran across a bridge that was over some subway tracks.  At the time we had no idea what could be the purpose of doing this.  Upon researching it further, I discovered that these locks are most likely attached to the fences as "Love Padlocks."  Found throughout the world, Love Padlocks are often affixed to bridges and symbolize the love between two people. Sort of a "locking up" of the love and throwing away the key.  I was somewhat relieved to read this, as I feared it was gang related (I give you permission to laugh at the country girl).