Plans for the Washington Monument began before Washington was even elected president. Because he was commander-in-chief of the American Army during the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress voted in 1783 to erect a statue of him. The original design called for 30 stone columns and statues of the Declaration of Independence signers with George Washington driving a chariot in front of an enormous obelisk in the center. In fact, a cornerstone ceremony held when ground was broken, was attended by a little known Congressman named Abraham Lincoln.
Thank you to Curt Buchholz and the National Parks Foundation for making our VIP trip so incredible!
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50 American flags surround the base, flying 24 hours a day.
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Look closely at how the stone changes color over Mike’s head. Construction stopped for 22 years in the Civil War era. New stone was from a different quarry.
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A tiny 8 inch high aluminum pyramid, surrounded by copper spires, tops the monument, in order to absorb lightening strikes.
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The clean and modern design almost looks out of place when you see it in historical perspective.
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In 1884, the Washington Monument was the tallest building in the world.
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Hundreds of honorary tiles line the interior, including Kentucky, the last state to “give up the Union”.
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A spectacular view, 30 miles in any direction. No building in DC is allowed to be higher. Great view of the White House, with the Christmas Tree in the foreground.
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Damage during the 2011 earthquake cause cracks that closed the monument for 3 years during a $15 million restoration.
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When the monument first opened, only men were allowed to take the elevator, as it was thought to be too dangerous. Women and children took the 898 steps up.
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