The Not-So-Hidden Symbolism

The Statue of Liberty is exactly what it sounds like. A statue--of liberty. She was created to commemorate the creation of freedom.  Her sole is purpose to represent freedom, a task she's been succeeding  in. When immigrants sailed into New York Harbor they would be greeted by Lady Liberty, standing guard at the threshold of New York Harbor beckoning all newcomers into her land of freedom.

A Tourist's Guide to the Statue

Many people have asked me "As a New Yorker, do you think I should go to the Statue of Liberty?" and every time I tell them the same thing: OF COURSE.

Lady Liberty is a jaw dropping sight. Standing at a whopping 305 ft. just being near Liberty Island will awe you. The key to seeing this amazing sight is going in the off season. Going in the off season gives you the massive advantage of avoiding the crowds ultimately giving you a superior time.

Go not only to see, but to learn. On your journey you will be educated on the history of Lady Liberty and its symbolism. Oh and don't worry, there's plenty to explore. With 14.717 acres to move about in, I assure you you'll never get bored. Many people say although the security and long lines are an inconvenience, but it is still worth it to see the Statue. While you're there, the experience feels almost surreal and otherworldly. In other words, GO!!!!

A History of the Statue

Around 1865, the French historian Edouard de Laboulaye proposed that France create a statue as a gift to the United States. This gift was a sort of reward, praising the U.S. on creating a legitimate and stable democracy. The sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, along with architects Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel and Eugene Viollet-le-Duc, were tasked with designing the statue. Although the lack of sufficient funds prevented the construction of Lady Liberty until 1875, the production was swift. The aim was to complete the construction in time for the centennial of the Declaration of Independence.

Eiffel used steel and iron pylon to create the skeleton, while he used copper for her "skin." The American-built pedestal was made of stone and placed on Liberty Island in the Hudson River, after being transferred from its building place in Fort Wood. It was opened right on schedule on October 28, 1886. President Grover Cleveland himself dedicated the Statue of Liberty in front of thousands of people. The Statue of Liberty is and official landmark of the United States. Not only does it does have historical significance, but it's big. It stands out. It is quit literally, a mark on the land. Not only that but people choose to make it special. Devils Tower is just as big but people don't idolize it like they do with the Statue. Devils Tower doesn't stand for anything, while the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of what the U.S. is based on: Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty Going Through
Massive Innovation in 1986

An Intro to the Statue

Many people think the Statue of Liberty is just a fun place to visit while on vacation. Well, they are wrong. Yes, it is a fun place to visit, but there is more than that. The Statue of Liberty has a large and interesting history. Do not view it as just a statue. View it as a symbol for peace and liberty, a monument to prosperity, and most of all: a gift between friends.

The Statue on the Fourth of July