Fascinating Statue of Liberty Facts and Stories
Standing tall in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty symbolizes the enduring friendship between the United States and France.
It has fascinated millions of visitors annually with its grandeur.
These visitors are often captivated by the National Monument’s towering height and fascinated by its evolving appearance, from copper to the iconic green patina.
The curiosity extends beyond its structure as tales of the statue’s lightning resilience spark interest among visitors.
So, let’s read more about some interesting Statue of Liberty facts.
Interesting Facts about the Statue of Liberty’s History
Here are some interesting facts about NYC’s National Monument’s history and how it has become a beloved cultural symbol today.
The Statue of Liberty was a Gift from France
The Statue was a gift from the people of France to the United States, celebrating 100 years of American independence.
Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the statue’s construction began in France in 1875.
Initial Destination of the Structure
One of the lesser-known facts about the Statue of Liberty is that it was initially intended for Egypt to symbolize friendship between France and Egypt.
However, due to financial constraints, the statue found its permanent home in New York Harbor.
Liberty Statue’s Arrival in New York
The disassembled statue arrived in New York in 1885 and was re-assembled on Bedloe’s Island, now known as Liberty Island.
The official dedication ceremony took place on October 28, 1886.
Shipping in Crates
The statue was shipped to the USA in more than 200 crates. It was dismantled into pieces, and each section was shipped separately across the Atlantic Ocean.
The reassembly and erection of the statue on Liberty Island were significant engineering accomplishments.
The Statue of Liberty Torch was Intended to be a Lighthouse
The iconic torch was initially designed as a lighthouse for ships entering New York Harbor.
Equipped with a powerful light, it could be seen up to 24 miles away.
However, due to design flaws and fire hazards, the original lighting system was replaced with a safer and more efficient one.
World Wars’ Role
Among the interesting facts about the Statue of Liberty is that during World War I and World War II, the Statue was a lookout post for the U.S. military.
Soldiers were stationed inside the statue’s pedestal and crown to watch for potential threats to New York Harbor.
Replacement of the Torch
In 1986, the Statue of Liberty’s original torch was replaced due to structural issues, and a new torch was installed.
The original torch is now displayed in the museum on Liberty Island, allowing visitors to witness its remarkable craftsmanship.
The Statue of Liberty is Similar to the Eiffel Tower
The structural framework of the Statue was designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer who structured the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Eiffel’s innovative design ensured the stability and strength of Lady Liberty, allowing it to withstand the test of time.
Statue of Liberty Height
Standing at a towering height of 305 feet (93 meters), the statue is a colossal structure.
Lady Liberty, which is 151 feet (46 meters) in height, rises from a pedestal that adds an additional 154 feet (47 meters), bringing the total height to 305 feet (93 meters).
At one point in history, it was the world’s tallest statue. But now, its position has been taken up by the Statue of Unity in India, which is the tallest statue at present.
The Material
The Statue of Liberty is primarily made of copper. Though the statue’s framework is constructed of iron and steel, its outer skin is made of sheets of copper.
It is constructed with a combination of 125 tons of steel and 31 tons of copper.
The Statue of Liberty, including its pedestal and foundation, weighs approximately 450,000 pounds (225 tons).
The weight of the Lady Liberty itself, without the pedestal and foundation, is around 225 tons.
📍Tip!
To make your visit worry-free, check insights into the opening hours and tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty.
Fun Facts about the Statue of Liberty
1. Symbolic Crown
The seven spikes on the statue’s crown represent the seven continents, symbolizing the universal concept of liberty.
2. French Roots
Despite residing in the United States, the Statue of Liberty is French.
It spent time in Paris at the World’s Fair before becoming a gift to celebrate the 100 years of the American Revolution.
3. Off-Centered Head
In 1982, it was discovered that the statue’s head had been installed 2 feet off-center, adding a quirky element to its design.
4. Restricted Torch Access
Entry to the torch has been restricted since 1916 following minor damages suffered during World War I.
5. Lightning Magnet
The Statue of Liberty has been struck by lightning approximately 600 times, highlighting its resilience as a monumental metal structure.
6. Liberation Symbolism
Broken shackles at the statue’s feet symbolize the nation’s movement toward freedom and prosperity from slavery.
7. Monumental Measurements
From the heel to the tip of its torch, the statue stands at a height of 305 feet (93 meters).
The statue’s height alone is about 151 feet (46 meters). The face of Lady Liberty is said to be modeled after Bartholdi’s mother.
8. Hollywood Star
The Statue of Liberty has appeared in various films, including Planet of the Apes, X-Men, and recently, in Marvel’s Spiderman (No Way Home) and even in Spiderman’s PS4 games.
Such appearances of the National Monument in popular culture add a cinematic allure to its fame.
Creepy Facts about the Statue of Liberty
Explore the eerie side of the statue as we uncover some quirky and creepy facts about the Statue of Liberty.
1. Statue of Liberty Changing Colors
One of the most creepy facts about the Statue is that its original color was not green.
The copper was shiny and reddish-brown when the statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886.
However, it weathered naturally to a greenish-blue color over the years.
The green hue, resulting from oxidation, is now a well-known characteristic of the statue.
2. Statue of Liberty Original Name
The Statue of Liberty was initially named “Liberty Enlightening the World.”
The statue’s name changed gradually due to popular usage and colloquial preferences.
This shift likely happened organically through public discourse, and the current name became more widely recognized and accepted.
3. Statue of Liberty Crown Facts
There are 162 steps inside the statue leading up to the top of the Statue of Liberty crown.
However, the stairs are steep and tiring, with no elevators beyond the pedestal.
Hence, only the adventurous ones get the added benefits of views from the crown.
Climbing these steps offers visitors spectacular views of New York Harbor, ships, ferries, and the land and sea meeting point.
Book a guided walking tour and prepare for your enlightening journey. Your guide will walk you through the stories of the Statue’s construction and reveal the inspiring tales behind each element.
Or you can opt for a Guided cruise tour with stunning views of the Statue from the water.
FAQs
What is Lady Liberty’s name?
Lady Liberty’s official name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.” This name emphasizes its symbolic role in spreading the ideals of liberty globally.
Why did France give America the Statue of Liberty?
France gave the United States the Statue of Liberty as a heartfelt gift to celebrate the 100th anniversary of American independence.
Who designed the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture gifted by the people of France and designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi.
Gustave Eiffel had built the metal framework whose company designed and built the Eiffel Tower.
It is primarily made of copper, with other elements such as gold, steel, and cast iron.
What is the real story behind the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty’s story originates as a symbol of friendship and shared values between France and the United States.
Designed by Bartholdi and with contributions from Eiffel, the statue was initially planned for Egypt but found its permanent home in New York Harbor.
It served as a lighthouse and later as a lookout post during World Wars I and II, adding historical significance to its narrative.
What is unusual about the Statue of Liberty?
One of the unique and fun facts about the Statue of Liberty is that its head had been installed 2 feet off-center, adding a quirky and unexpected element to its design.
Also, the broken shackles at Lady Liberty’s feet are symbolic, representing the nation’s movement toward freedom and prosperity from the shackles of slavery.
How tall is the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty stands at a height of 93 meters (305 ft) from the ground to the tip of the flame, which is equivalent to the height of a 22-story building.
When it was made in 1886, it was the tallest structure in New York.
Today, the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world, with a height of 182 meters (592 feet). Check Statue of Liberty vs Statue of Unity.
When was the Statue of Liberty built?
The Statue of Liberty construction began in 1875 and it was completed in 1884.
The Statue was disassembled and shipped to the United States from France when construction was completed.
The reassembly was completed in 1886 and the Statue was officially unveiled on October 28, 1886.
Why is the Statue of Liberty a symbol of freedom?
The idea of the Liberty Statue was suggested in 1865 to commemorate the abolition of slavery and the Union victory in the American Civil War.
The statue depicts the United State’s commitment to democracy and liberty by employing the symbol of a robed female figure, Libertadores, the Roman goddess of freedom.
The Statue also has a broken chain at her feet, symbolizing the end of slavery.
What is the history of Ellis Island?
Ellis Island opened in 1892 as an immigration station; it served for more than 60 years and closed in 1954.
It owes its name to the Manhattan Merchant Samuel Ellis, who owned the island in the 1770s.
Today, this historic site houses artifacts and passenger records on US immigration
You can get a Liberty and Ellis Island combo ticket to explore the fascinating Ellis Island and its attractions.
Featured Image: History.com