A symbol of freedom, equality, and democracy, the Lincoln Memorial is an iconic sight in Washington D.C. that is instantly recognisable. The imposing memorial has been the site of many different historic events and it chockfull of history. We will be looking at Lincoln Memorial facts that you should know about this national monument.
At a Glance: Interesting Lincoln Memorial Facts and Trivia
The Lincoln Memorial celebrates the life of President Abraham Lincoln (1809-65), who guided a divided nation through the Civil War. He is also well known as the President who made the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing many slaves from slavehood and servitude.
Did you know that the Lincoln Memorial was built to resemble a Greek temple and is 99 feet tall? Or that the statue of Abraham Lincoln inside the memorial was designed with an expression of compassion and sadness? Here are some more fascinating facts and trivia about the Lincoln Memorial:
- The Lincoln Memorial was officially dedicated on May 30, 1922, over 50 years after Abraham Lincoln’s death.
- The interior walls of the memorial are made of Indiana limestone and feature 36 columns, each representing one state in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death.
- The Lincoln Memorial is located on the National Mall in Washington D.C., overlooking the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.
- On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
- The Lincoln Memorial was the inspiration behind the design of the Lincoln penny, first minted in 1909.
- The statue of Abraham Lincoln inside the memorial is 19 feet tall and made of 28 blocks of white Georgia marble.
- The Gettysburg Address is engraved on the south wall of the memorial, and the Second Inaugural Address is engraved on the north wall.
- The Lincoln Memorial is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The total cost of building the Lincoln Memorial was $2.9 million, which was funded by Congress and private donations.
These are just a few of the many captivating facts and intriguing tidbits that make the Lincoln Memorial such a cherished and iconic landmark in American history.
Planning for the Lincoln Memorial
Plans for the Lincoln Memorial began in 1867, two years after his assassination. However, construction on the memorial didn’t begin until 1914.
Lincoln Memorial Design and Architecture
One of the most striking Lincoln Memorial facts is that the memorial’s architecture is designed to resemble the temples of ancient Greece and Rome. This design choice has made the iconic landmark timeliness and the building continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.
The Lincoln Memorial is an architectural masterpiece that stands as a symbol of democracy and equality.
Construction of the Lincoln Memorial
When it comes to the construction of the Lincoln Memorial, historical records show that it was a massive undertaking, from the initial planning stages to the final implementation. The memorial, which is located in Washington D.C. on the western part of the National Mall, took eight years to build and was completed in 1922.
It was designed by architect Henry Bacon, who partnered with sculptor Daniel Chester French to create the iconic structure that we know today.
The construction of the Lincoln Memorial is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the many people involved. It stands as an enduring symbol of the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and the values he embodied, including equality and freedom for all.
Abraham Lincoln Statue
The Abraham Lincoln statue is one of the most recognizable features of the Lincoln Memorial. Sculpted by Daniel Chester French, this iconic statue depicts Lincoln sitting in a contemplative pose, gazing out over the Reflecting Pool towards the Washington Monument.
Standing at 19 feet tall and weighing an impressive 175 tons, the statue is made of Georgia white marble and is one of the largest sculpted marble statues in the world. The statue’s artistic details are also worth noting, with Lincoln’s facial features expertly crafted to convey a sense of wisdom, compassion, and strength.
The statue of President Lincoln is made out of 28 pieces of Georgian marble. Just behind the statue are the words,
IN THIS TEMPLE
AS IN THE HEARTS OF THE PEOPLE
FOR WHOM HE SAVED THE UNION
THE MEMORY OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN
IS ENSHRINED FOREVER
An interesting facts is that Lincoln’s face and hands are based on castings done when he was president. Thus they are particularly realistic.
The words of his Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural speech flank the statue on the north and south walls.
The significance of the statue, with the stony dignity of its gaze, is not lost on visitors to the Lincoln Memorial, as it serves as a powerful representation of Abraham Lincoln’s leadership, vision, and enduring legacy as one of the most beloved Presidents in American history.
Columns at the Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is full of symbolism. For example, Henry Bacon designed the memorial to resemble a Doric temple, with 36 columns to represent the 36 states in Lincoln’s union.
The names of the 36 states of the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death are inscribed above the columns, along with the date that each of them entered the Union.
Attic Frieze
The column are not the only part of the Lincoln Memorial that bear the name of different states. Another interesting Lincoln Memorial fact is that if you look above the column to the attic frieze, you will find it inscribed with the names of the 48 Union states at the time of the memorial’s dedication on May 30, 1922.
Murals
The interior of the memorial features intricate murals and inscriptions that celebrate Lincoln’s achievements and legacy. Look for symbolic images of freedom, liberty and unity, among others.
These murals depict principles that were important to Lincoln.
Unification, which represents Fraternity, Unity, and Charity, can be found on the north wall.
The principle of Emancipation, which represents Freedom, Immortality, Justice, Law, and Liberty, is on the south wall.
The north and south murals depict scenes from the Civil War, while the inscriptions on the walls feature some of Lincoln’s most famous speeches, including his second inaugural address and the Gettysburg Address.
The murals were painted by Jules Guérin.
Exhibit Area
There is an exhibit area that has panels with information on Lincoln’s life, and stone tablets etched with famous words by the former president. This was thought up by school kids who helped fund it by collecting pennies.
Notable Events at the Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial has been the site of important public gatherings. One of the most famous is the civil rights march in August 28, 1963 where Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech to a crowd of over 250,000 people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial.
An engraving of King’s words marks the spot where he stood. It’s on the landing 18 steps from the top, and is usually where everyone is gathered, snapping photos of the awesome view out over the Mall.
The memorial has also been the site of many political rallies and protests, including the Women’s Suffrage Parade in 1913 and the March for Our Lives in 2018. In addition, the Lincoln Memorial has been the backdrop for many cultural events, such as concerts by musicians like Marian Anderson and Bob Dylan.
On a more somber note, the Lincoln Memorial has also been a place of mourning and remembrance. In 1968, following the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., thousands of mourners gathered at the Lincoln Memorial to pay their respects.
Today, the Lincoln Memorial continues to be a symbolic location for gatherings and events that reflect the values of democracy and equality. Its enduring legacy speaks to the importance of preserving historic landmarks that serve as reminders of our past and inspiration for our future.
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
One of the most iconic features of the Lincoln Memorial is the Reflecting Pool that lies in front of it. This serene and picturesque pool spans 2,029 feet long and holds 6,750,000 gallons of water. It was designed by Henry Bacon to provide a stunning reflection of the Lincoln Memorial, which stands proudly at its edge.
The Reflecting Pool has played an important role in many events throughout history, including the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Today, visitors can stroll along the pool and take in the stunning views of the memorial and surrounding area.
The pool underwent a major renovation in 2010, which involved draining the pool and installing a new circulation and filtration system. This restored the pool to its original beauty and ensured its longevity for future generations to admire.
The Legacy of the Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial has a lasting legacy that extends far beyond its physical structure. As a revered symbol of democracy and equality, it continues to inspire and educate visitors from around the world.
One of the most significant aspects of the Lincoln Memorial’s legacy is its role in honoring the memory of President Abraham Lincoln. By showcasing his towering legacy, the memorial reinforces the importance of Lincoln’s leadership and his dedication to preserving a united nation.
However, the Lincoln Memorial’s legacy is not limited to Lincoln himself. The site has played an instrumental role in many defining moments in American history, such as the civil rights movement, anti-war protests, and political rallies.
Moreover, the Lincoln Memorial represents the principles of democracy and equality that are core to the American identity. Its construction and continued existence serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to achieve these values and create a more just society.
The Lincoln Memorial is a must-visit when in Washington D.C.
Overall, the Lincoln Memorial’s legacy is one of inspiration, education, and progress. Its enduring significance as a symbol of American history and values ensures that it will continue to be revered for generations to come.
If you enjoyed this story, we think that you will also enjoy this one on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Washington Monument and the National Air and Space Museum along the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
