Lincoln Memorial

Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is a national monument in **Washington, D.C.**, dedicated to **Abraham Lincoln**, the 16th President of the United States. It honors Lincoln’s legacy in preserving the Union during the Civil War and advancing the cause of liberty and equality.

Location and Design

• Located at the **west end of the National Mall**, opposite the U.S. Capitol
• Designed by architect **Henry Bacon**
• Resembles a **Greek Doric temple** with 36 columns, each representing a state in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death in 1865

Interior Features

• A massive **19-foot marble statue** of Lincoln seated, sculpted by **Daniel Chester French**
• Two major inscriptions:

 - The **Gettysburg Address**
 - Lincoln’s **Second Inaugural Address**

• Symbolic murals and inscriptions representing unity, freedom, and justice

Dedication and History

• Dedicated on May 30, 1922
• Attended by Lincoln’s only surviving son, Robert Todd Lincoln
• Segregation was still in effect at the time of the dedication ceremony

Role in Civil Rights Movement

The Lincoln Memorial has become a historic site for civil rights activism:

• Marian Anderson performed here in 1939 after being denied access to Constitution Hall
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech on its steps during the 1963 March on Washington

Symbolism

• The seated posture of Lincoln reflects strength, thoughtfulness, and compassion
• The 36 columns represent unity, while additional stones name all 50 states and U.S. territories

Visitor Experience

• Open to the public year-round, 24 hours a day
• Illuminated beautifully at night
• Accessible by foot from the National Mall, often visited along with:

 - Washington Monument
 - Vietnam Veterans Memorial
 - Korean War Veterans Memorial

Fun Facts

• The statue was originally intended to be 10 feet tall, but was enlarged to 19 feet
• The Lincoln Memorial appears on the back of the U.S. penny and $5 bill
• It’s one of the most visited landmarks in the U.S., drawing millions of visitors annually

See Also

• Washington Monument
• Abraham Lincoln
• Civil Rights Movement
• National Mall
• Memorials in the United States