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Statue of Liberty
A Beacon of Freedom and Hope
The Statue of Liberty has stood tall in New York Harbor for over a century as one of America’s most recognizable symbols. But do you know the fascinating backstory behind this iconic lady? Here we explore the history, meaning, and enduring legacy of the Statue of Liberty.
A Gift From France
The Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same engineer famous for the Eiffel Tower). Construction of Lady Liberty began in France in 1875. It was conceived as a symbol of the United States' independence and the abolition of slavery during the country’s first centennial.
The piece was intended as a gift from the French people to the Americans to commemorate the Centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. A symbolic gesture promoting friendship between the two nations. Fundraising in both countries helped support the massive project to design, build, transport, and construct this colossal statue.
A Beacon of Hope
Standing 151 feet tall from foot to torch, the Statue of Liberty has stood tall in New York Harbor since 1886 as a symbolic beacon of hope and freedom for immigrants arriving in America. Her raised torch and tablet bearing the date of American independence conveyed the message that liberty was holding aloft the light that would guide freedom-loving people to American shores.
For generations of immigrants arriving by ship, seeing the towering statue in the distance was their first glimpse of the New World and the promise of fresh opportunities in a new home. It represented their hopes and dreams of starting anew in the land of liberty. Over the years, she has welcomed over 12 million immigrants through Ellis Island located just off her shoulder in New York Harbor.
A Robust Structure
Beyond just being a beautiful work of art, the Statue of Liberty has an incredibly robust internal structure that allows it to withstand harsh weather conditions while towering over 150 feet above one of the busiest ports in the world.
The statue itself is made of thin copper sheets hammered over a steel framework designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same man behind the Eiffel Tower). This gives it a lightweight yet extremely durable construction. It also helps contribute to the iconic patina green surface coloring from years of weather exposure.
Within the pedestal is a spiral staircase leading up to the feet, and from there, a circular staircase to the crown. Over 350 steps in total to reach the highest point. The copper skin is supported by a sturdy iron pylon within the pedestal and figures. Incredibly, despite over a century of exposure to wind, rain, and sun — it remains standing tall and strong. A true testament to 19th-century engineering.
National Symbol and Icon
Since its dedication in 1886, the Statue of Liberty has become a globally recognized symbol of freedom and democracy. Millions visit Ellis Island and Lady Liberty herself each year to learn about immigration and get breathtaking views of New York City and the harbor.
She continues connecting the ideals of the past to the present. Whether welcoming new citizens, honoring American independence from Britain, or simply reminding all of our common shared hopes — the Statue of Liberty stands as one of America’s most iconic national symbols. A reminder to generations that with liberty comes opportunity, and that freedom’s light guides just and open societies around the world.
From gift to monument, through the years of embracing immigrants and representing universal human rights — the meaning behind the Statue of Liberty has evolved. The Statue of Liberty has become an iconic symbol of the United States and is welcoming immigrants and visitors.
Every year around 4 million people visit Liberty Island to see the statue up close. A plaque at the statue’s base reads, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” This phrase engraved on the Statue of Liberty is still relevant today as it welcomes immigrants to America in search of freedom and opportunity.
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Belle Rose
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