The Statue of Liberty, a monumental landmark of America, majestically stands on Bedloe's Island in New York. The connection of the Statue of Liberty with today's date, October 28th, traces back to its inauguration in 1886. This colossal statue is woven with numerous stories. Why was it named the Statue of Liberty? Who were the masterminds behind its creation? How long did it take to come to life, and many more such intriguing details await you. Let's unveil the answers to these questions.
The Statue of Liberty was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States. It was dedicated by President Grover Cleveland on October 28, 1886, in New York Harbor. Originally named 'Liberty Enlightening the World,' this statue was proposed by French abolitionist Edouard de Laboulaye to commemorate the Franco-American alliance during the American Revolution.
The Epitome of Design by the Eiffel Tower's Creator
French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi crafted it, presenting a 151-foot tall figure of a woman holding a torch. Its massive steel framework, designed by Eugène Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc and Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel, renowned for the Eiffel Tower in Paris, supports the statue.
Completion of Construction in 1884
In February 1877, Congress approved a site for this grand statue on Bedloe's Island, New York, suggested by Bartholdi. By May 1884, the statue was completed in France, followed by the laying of its foundation stone in New York Harbor by Americans three months later.
A Transatlantic Journey in 200 Crates
In June 1885, over 200 crates carried the disassembled parts of the Statue of Liberty across the ocean. The reconstruction of its copper sheets was finalized with the last ceremonial bolt being placed on October 28, 1886, under the aegis of President Cleveland. The event witnessed the presence of numerous distinguished French and American guests.
In 1924, the Statue of Liberty was declared a National Monument, and in 1956, Bedloe's Island was renamed Liberty Island. The statue underwent massive restoration during the 1980s.
Memorable Events
On October 28, 1627, Mughal Emperor Jahangir passed away.
On October 28, 1922, the Fascist forces seized power in Italy through the March on Rome, with Mussolini becoming the Prime Minister.
October 28, 1955, marks the birth of Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, in Washington.
October 28, 1954, witnessed Ernest Hemingway receiving the Nobel Prize for Literature.
