Minor reveals and major inspiration at the Statue of Liberty

Whenever we hear about the Statue of Liberty, we visualise a huge statue holding a tablet in one hand and a torch in another. Luckily, on my US East Coast Space Adventure with EdTerra Edventures, I visited Liberty Island and saw the massive sculpture. I learnt that it is an eminent symbol of freedom and democracy.

During the visit, I collected some facts about Lady Liberty, some of which followed from the short film I watched at Liberty Island right after my ferry ride.

I am presenting some of my findings here:

• Situated in Liberty Island and named after the statue, Lady Liberty was actually a gift from France to the USA.
• Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi was the chief designer on the Statue of Liberty project. He lent this creation in the Neoclassical style. On the other hand, the interior framework of the statue is made of iron and was designed by the renowned sculptor, Gustave Eiffel.
• The height of the statue from the pedestal foundation to the tip of the torch is 305 feet and 6 inches. The statue weighs about 225 tonnes.
• The exterior of the statue is made of copper. The statue gets its green colour due to the oxidation of copper over time.
• The statue’s crown has seven spikes representing the seven continents of the world.
• In her left land, the Lady holds a tablet on which “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI” is inscribed — it commemorates the Declaration of Independence in the United States.
• The Statue of Liberty is also known as Liberty Enlightening the World.

I also learnt that other than being a major tourist attraction for the US, the statue holds immense historical significance. The statue would be the first major welcoming sight for the immigrants landing on the Port of New York after a long journey across the Atlantic Ocean

Thanks to the visit, I now understand the significance of this imposing sculpture beyond its beauty and architectural marvel. I also understand how it is a global symbol of freedom, equality, and democracy. Although it was cold there and I missed the chance to climb to the top of the sculpture, the experience was one-of-its-kind. I wish for one and all to visit this architectural wonder at least once in their lifetimes.

Written by Nirmay Nadekar (Euro School, Thane).

__

EdTerra Edventures conducts various international and domestic programs for the youth. If you go to school and are under 17 years of age, ask your school to contact us to arrange a visit to your school for an introduction to the USA East Coast Space Adventure and other journeys under EdTerra’s Going Global Program.

For queries call +91-11-48885800 or visit EdTerra Browse Journeys page to know more about the programs for school students. Visit our FB page by clicking HERE. Also, check our podcast page by clicking HERE.