Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial – Washington, DC
On the Western edge of the Tidal Basin close to the National Mall along the famous Cherry Tree Walk is the memorial honoring FDR and the era he represents. The memorial follows 12 years of the history of America through a sequence of four outdoor rooms with each being devoted to one of FDR;s terms of office.
See the outstanding sculptures which were inspired by photographs of the 32nd President. There is a 10 foot statue showing him in a wheeled chair, another bas-relief showing him riding in a car during his first inaugural.
The memorial remains open 24 hours a day with Interpretive Rangers on duty from 8 am to 11:45 daily (except Christmas Day).
FDR is remembered as the President who held his "fireside chats" over the radio from 1933 – 1945. He was the President during WWII until his death on April 12, 1945. He took the office of President during the depths of the Great Depression and led the country through many trials, up to and including WWII.
Roosevelt was an only child born to wealthy parents. He married Eleanor who was his strongest supporter during his term in the White House. He suffered from poliomyelitis which gave him insight into the struggles of the common man who he became a fierce supporter of during his terms in office.
The American people saw him as a man who exhibited sympathy, understanding and reassurance during the troubled time of the Great Depression and again during the war.
The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is one of the most expansive memorials in the nation. Yet, its shade trees, waterfalls, statuary, and quiet alcoves create the feeling of a secluded garden rather than an imposing structure.
A visit to the memorial will have you wanting to do some research on the time of his Presidency. History has a way of repeating itself and the lessons learned from FDR could be valuable in years to come.
Open: Daily
8 a.m. to midnight
Closed: Dec. 25
Location:
West Basin Drive
Metro:
Smithsonian
Facilities:
Bookstore, Restrooms, Exhibits
Park Information:
202.426.6841
Related posts:
About Editor
Comments