Jefferson Memorial

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