Historical Significance of the Washington Monument
Built in two phases between 1848 and 1884 and dedicated in 1885, the Washington Monument is an iconic marble-faced granite obelisk that pays homage to the first President of the United States, George Washington. Situated in Washington, D.C., the monument has become a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Standing at an impressive height of 555′ 5 1/8″ and weighing 81,120 tons, it possesses significant historical and architectural value.
Construction and Design
The structure of the Washington Monument comprises white marble blocks ranging in thickness from 15′ at the base to 18″ at the top. The marble undergoes a color change at 150 feet, denoting the period between 1856 and 1876 when construction was halted. To reach the observation level, visitors can climb the 896 steps inside the monument or utilize the elevator available.
A Controversial Journey
The construction of the Washington Monument encountered numerous setbacks, controversies, and financial difficulties over the course of nearly four decades. The project’s plans originated in 1835 when the Washington National Monument Society solicited public funds to construct a tribute to George Washington, with John Marshall and James Madison among the key figures. The cornerstone was laid on July 4, 1848, in a grand ceremony attended by public figures, including President James K. Polk and future presidents James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, and Abraham Lincoln.
However, progress was halted due to insufficient funds until August 2, 1876, when Congress allocated $2 million in federal funds to resume construction. Renowned engineer Thomas Lincoln Casey led the project, and in December 1884, the monument was completed with the placement of the capstone and aluminum point. Despite undergoing a major restoration in the 1990s, the monument suffered damage in an earthquake in 2011. It reopened to the public in May 2014.
Visiting the Washington Monument
Today, visitors have the option to reserve a place online and reach the top of the Washington Monument either by elevator or by climbing the nearly 900 steps. At the summit, there is a small museum offering panoramic views of the nation’s capital. With its symbolic status and its presence adorned by 50 American flags representing each state, the monument continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Washington Monument, a true testament to the legacy of George Washington and the proud history of the United States!
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Written by: Erica Lamberg, Contributing Reporter for Fox News Digital.
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