The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Washington DC. It stands as a symbol of unity, freedom, and democracy, and has been a popular tourist attraction for decades. But what is the story behind this magnificent structure? Let's take a journey through time and explore the fascinating history of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC.
The Inspiration Behind the Memorial
The idea for a memorial to honor President Abraham Lincoln was first proposed in 1867, just two years after his assassination. However, it wasn't until 1911 that Congress officially approved the construction of the memorial.The Lincoln Memorial Commission was formed to oversee the project, and they held a design competition to determine the best design for the memorial. Out of 85 submissions, architect Henry Bacon's design was chosen as the winner. His design featured a grand structure with 36 columns, representing the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln's death. The memorial would also include a statue of Lincoln sitting on a throne-like chair, facing the Washington Monument.
The Building Process
Construction on the Lincoln Memorial began in 1914 and took eight years to complete. The memorial was built using marble from Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee, and it cost $3 million to build.The interior walls of the memorial are made of Indiana limestone, while the exterior is made of Colorado marble. One interesting fact about the building process is that it was primarily done by hand. Over 28,000 blocks of marble were carved and placed by hand, with no modern machinery used. This speaks to the incredible craftsmanship and dedication that went into building this magnificent structure.
The Dedication Ceremony
The Lincoln Memorial was officially dedicated on May 30, 1922, in a grand ceremony attended by thousands of people. President Warren G.Harding gave the dedication speech, and the keynote address was delivered by Robert Todd Lincoln, the only surviving son of Abraham Lincoln. One of the most memorable moments of the dedication ceremony was when Marian Anderson, an African American opera singer, performed on the steps of the memorial. This was a significant moment in history, as it was the first time an African American had been allowed to perform at a public event in front of an integrated audience in Washington DC.
The Significance of the Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial holds great significance in American history. It serves as a reminder of President Lincoln's legacy and his contributions to the country. The memorial also played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement, as it was the site of many important speeches and protests. One of the most famous speeches delivered at the Lincoln Memorial was Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963. This speech is considered one of the most significant speeches in American history and is still remembered and celebrated today.Renovations and Additions
Over the years, the Lincoln Memorial has undergone several renovations and additions to improve its appearance and preserve its historical significance.In 1929, a reflecting pool was added to the front of the memorial, which provides a stunning view of the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building. In 1959, a bronze statue of Lincoln's head was added to the memorial's north side. This statue is based on a life mask of Lincoln made by sculptor Daniel Chester French. In 1975, a bronze plaque was added to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.
Visiting the Lincoln Memorial Today
Today, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the most visited attractions in Washington DC, with over 6 million visitors each year. Visitors can climb the 57 steps to reach the memorial and take in the breathtaking view of the National Mall.The interior of the memorial is open to the public, and visitors can see the famous statue of Lincoln and read inscriptions of his most famous speeches. The Lincoln Memorial is also a popular spot for events and protests, as it holds a special place in American history. It has been the site of many significant events, including protests against the Vietnam War and celebrations of Barack Obama's presidential inauguration.
