Civil Rights in America
The Lincoln Memorial has been the site of many notable events, particularly in the history of civil rights. A groundbreaking concert by Marian Anderson took place at the memorial in 1939, and the memorial was the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I have a dream” speech in 1963. The location of King’s speech is noted with a carved inscription on the steps of the memorial.
Image: National Park Service
Pre-Inaugural Event
2009 –President Barack Obama's pre-inaugural event at the Lincoln Memorial attracted huge crowds.
Image: National Park Service
Aerial View
The Lincoln Memorial landscape is comprised of three distinct areas: the Reflecting Pool; the Lincoln Circle and Radial Roads; and the Watergate Steps area.The circular road has been converted to a pedestrian plaza.The Watergate Steps leading to the Potomac River were envisioned as an entry point and once provided seating for a concert barge. The Arts of Peace (Music / Harvest and Aspiration /Literature) and the Arts of War (Valor and Sacrifice) flanking the Watergate Steps and Arlington Memorial Bridge were a gift from Italy (1951).
Image: National Park Service
Trampled Grass Before Reconstruction
Originally, there was no pool recirculation. The pool coping was on pilings but the base was not and shifted, resulting in extensive leakage.As part of the current restoration project, the pool is being updated to circulate water from the Tidal Basin. Now, less water is required and the result is reduced use ofpotable water. Accessible walkways and securityhave been added along the length of the pool. North and south elm walks have been replaced and lighting added.
Image: National Park Service
Looking out to the Capitol
View from the south side of Lincoln Memorial with Reflecting Pool, Rainbow Pool at Worlld War II, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol.
Image: National Park Service
Reflecting Pool at Night
The Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool take on a different character at dusk.
Image: National Park Service
Birthday Celebration
Lincoln's birthday celebration honors the 16th president. The Lincoln and Grant memorials, both dedicated in 1922, emphasize the different roles each president played in the Civil War and continued national union.
Image: National Park Service
Staircase to be Rebuilt
The staircase to the Reflecting pool is part of the circulation system being rebuilt.Note the butterfly joints in stone paving.
Image: National Park Service
Carving Detail
Lincoln Memorial stone carving detail showing state names and statehood year.
Image: National Park Service
More Detail
Image: National Park Service