The cornerstone is laid for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.

On February 12, 1915, a historic event took place in Washington D.C. as the cornerstone was laid for the Lincoln Memorial. This iconic monument, dedicated to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, has since become a symbol of freedom and equality.

The Lincoln Memorial is situated at the western end of the National Mall, aligning perfectly with the Washington Monument and the United States Capitol. Its construction began in 1914 and was completed in 1922. The memorial was designed by architect Henry Bacon, who drew inspiration from classical Greek temples to create this grand structure.

The cornerstone laying ceremony, held on February 12, 1915, was a momentous occasion attended by thousands of people. The ceremony marked the official start of the memorial’s construction and was an opportunity to honor and remember one of America’s greatest leaders.

President William Howard Taft, who was in office at the time, delivered a powerful speech during the ceremony. He spoke of Abraham Lincoln’s legacy, emphasizing the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice that the memorial would come to represent.

The Lincoln Memorial holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. It serves as a reminder of Lincoln’s leadership during one of the most challenging periods in American history – the Civil War. Lincoln’s presidency was marked by his unwavering commitment to preserving the Union and ending slavery, making him a revered figure in U.S. history.

The design of the Lincoln Memorial reflects the importance and significance of its purpose. The exterior of the monument features 36 fluted Doric columns, representing the number of states that encompassed the United States at the time of Lincoln’s death. Above the columns, a frieze depicts important events from Lincoln’s life.

The focal point of the memorial is the larger-than-life statue of Abraham Lincoln seated in contemplation. This statue, created by sculptor Daniel Chester French, towers over visitors and evokes a sense of reverence and admiration for the president.

Inside the memorial, inscriptions of two of Lincoln’s most famous speeches – the Gettysburg Address and his second inaugural address – adorn the walls. The timeless words of these speeches continue to inspire visitors and serve as a reminder of the principles that Lincoln fought to uphold.

Today, the Lincoln Memorial remains one of the most visited landmarks in the United States. It serves as a gathering place for peaceful protests, celebrations, and reflective moments. The steps of the memorial have witnessed significant events in American history, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.