Jefferson Memorial: Difference between revisions
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== Design and Architecture == | == Design and Architecture == | ||
* Designed by architect | * Designed by architect '''John Russell Pope''' | ||
* Inspired by the | * Inspired by the '''Pantheon''' in Rome and '''Monticello''', Jefferson’s home in Virginia | ||
* Features: | * Features: | ||
- A | - A '''circular colonnade of Ionic columns''' | ||
- A | - A '''dome''' rising 129 feet above the rotunda | ||
- Constructed with white | - Constructed with white '''Georgia marble''' and '''Tennessee pink marble''' | ||
== Interior Features == | == Interior Features == | ||
Revision as of 19:34, 21 July 2025
| Jefferson Memorial | |
|---|---|
| The Jefferson Memorial on the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. |
The Jefferson Memorial is a presidential memorial in **Washington, D.C.**, honoring **Thomas Jefferson**, the **third President of the United States**, principal author of the **Declaration of Independence**, and a champion of liberty, science, and democracy.
Location and Setting
- Located on the **Tidal Basin** in **West Potomac Park**
- Surrounded by cherry blossom trees — a major attraction each spring
- Offers stunning views across the water to the **White House** and **Washington Monument**
Design and Architecture
- Designed by architect John Russell Pope
- Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and Monticello, Jefferson’s home in Virginia
- Features:
- A circular colonnade of Ionic columns - A dome rising 129 feet above the rotunda - Constructed with white Georgia marble and Tennessee pink marble
Interior Features
- A 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson stands at the center, sculpted by Rudulph Evans
- Inscriptions on the interior walls include:
- Excerpts from the Declaration of Independence - Jefferson’s writings on liberty, education, and democracy
- The statue faces toward the White House
History
- Construction began in 1939 and was completed in 1943
- Dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on April 13, 1943, Jefferson’s 200th birthday
- The bronze statue was added in 1947 (wartime shortages initially delayed its installation)
Legacy and Symbolism
- Represents Enlightenment ideals and the founding principles of the nation
- Jefferson is portrayed as a philosopher-statesman, surrounded by his own powerful words
- The memorial aligns symbolically and visually with other monuments on the National Mall
Fun Facts
- Over 3 million people visit the memorial each year
- The site is particularly popular during the National Cherry Blossom Festival
- Jefferson’s image also appears on the nickel and $2 bill