The Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial

Description: “In this temple, as in the hearts of the people for whom he saved the Union, the memory of Abraham Lincoln is enshrined forever.” Beneath these words, the 16th President of the United States sits immortalized in marble as an enduring symbol of unity, strength, and wisdom. The Lincoln Memorial was dedicated in 1922, when the country felt unified as never before, following World War I.

At that time, no national memorial had been contemplated for any president except George Washington, yet talk of building one to Lincoln began even as he lingered on his deathbed. Lincoln not only saved the Union, he reinvigorated the nation's founding principle - that all men are created equal.

National Park Service Rangers present a variety of programs and tours at the memorial year round.

More to Explore: While at the National Mall and Memorial Parks, visit the Ford's Theatre National Historic Site to honor Lincoln, then commemorate those who gave their lives for the Union at the African American Civil War Memorial and celebrate the continuing story of civil rights and human equality at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

The National Mall offers a menu of opportunities to pay homage to our nation's history and heroes, including war veterans and presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Along the mall, the Smithsonian Institution is bursting with engaging national museums for all interests. Don't miss the National Museum of American History to explore the temporary exhibit Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863 & The March on Washington, 1963 on display through September 7, 2014.

Photo Credits:

  1. "Photograph of Lincoln Memorial with the seasonal Cherry blossom trees."
  2. "Photograph of sculptor working on the Lincoln Memorial."
  3. "Contemporary photograph of the Lincoln Memorial." Prints courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.