The Washington Monument, completed in 1884, quickly became one of Washington D.C.’s earliest visitor draws and stands in tribute to one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Rising to an impressive height of over 555 feet, the Washington Monument is famous as the most visible structure in Washington D.C., in addition to being the world’s tallest stone structure.
It was designed to pay tribute to General George Washington, the United States’ first president and “Father of our Country,” the monument recognizes Washington’s leadership in the fight for independence. Located at the end of the Reflecting Pool and opposite of the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument is patterned after the classic Egyptian obelisk. This marble, granite, and sandstone structure offers amazing views of not just the city but the surrounding thirty miles as well.
Interesting Facts
George Washington had to borrow money to finance his move to New York.
While in Philadelphia attending the Continental Congress, he rented a house for $3000 a year.
Washington bought slaves from Virginia to work in the house. If a slave lived in Philadelphia more than 6 months, he could become a free person. Martha Washington would rotate the slaves every five months.
During Washington’s presidency his health was questioned. In 1789, a large tumor appeared on Washington’s left thigh and he had to undergo surgery. The front of the Presidents house was blocked off to insure quiet.
During Washington’s first term he appointed 4 men to his Cabinet. Two of those men were Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. Each started a political party despite Washington’s hope that the country would stay non-partisan.
Jefferson led the Democratic/Republican Party while Hamilton led the Federalist Party.
