The Lincoln Memorial: Pure patriotic magic
It’s a little surprising to learn that one of the most popular attractions in Washington D.C. doesn’t include rides, or food booths, or even long lines. In fact, the Lincoln Memorial may seem short on entertainment value, but the sheer wonder it offers is pure magic.
Part of the city’s famed National Mall, and located in West Potomac Park, the memorial stands as a tribute to the nation’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. Credited with abolishing slavery, preserving the Union and ending the Civil War, Lincoln was assassinated in 1865 while still in office.
The Lincoln Monument Association was created in 1867 to honor the slain official, but little progress was made until 1901 when the current site was chosen. Construction began on the impressive structure in 1914 and was completed in 1922.
Constructed mainly of marble and limestone, the building contains 36 columns representing the states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death. Inside, the central chamber soars 60 feet overhead, and in the middle sits a mammoth statue of the great man himself.
Hewn from 28 marble blocks, and weighing in at more than 120 tons, the statue of a sitting Lincoln is 19 feet tall and 19 feet wide. In adjoining rooms, Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address are carved into the walls.
The memorial is open to the public 24 hours a day every day except December 25th. Park rangers are available from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. daily to answer questions, and a bookstore located on site offers materials on the memorial for purchase.
It may not have a snack shop, or costumed characters, but the Lincoln Memorial does have a sense of grandeur and history. It defies anyone to view it from the end of the long reflecting pool, or sit looking out over the city from its stately steps, and not feel a sense of appreciation and awe.
- by D.J. Siegel, Washington Reporter for HelloMetro
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