Statue of Liberty Fun Facts

We’ve created this list of 101 fun facts about the Statue of Liberty!

This article contains over 101 fun facts about the Statue of Liberty, fun facts for kids, plus fun facts about its history, tourism, culture, legends, and so much more!

Table of Contents

• About the Statue of Liberty
• Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty
• Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty for Kids
• History
• Design
• Cultural significance
• Tourism
• Legends of the the Statue of Liberty
• Symbols of the the Statue of Liberty
• Other Interesting Things About the Statue of Liberty

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – About the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, United States. It was a gift from the people of France to the United States, dedicated on October 28, 1886, as a symbol of freedom and democracy.

The statue, which stands at 305 feet (93 meters) tall, depicts a female figure representing Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence in her left hand.

The Statue of Liberty has become an iconic symbol of America and is recognized all around the world.

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – 101 Fun Facts

Here are 101 fun facts about the Statue of Liberty:

1. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States.
2. It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi.
3. Gustave Eiffel, the engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower, helped design the statue’s internal structure.
4. The statue was shipped to the United States in crates and assembled on a pedestal on what is now called Liberty Island.
5. The statue is made of copper sheets, held in place by an iron framework.
6. It was originally a dull brown color, but over time it has turned green due to the natural weathering of the copper.
7. The statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886, by President Grover Cleveland.
8. The statue stands 305 feet (93 meters) tall from the base to the tip of the torch.
9. Including the pedestal, the statue stands 151 feet (46 meters) tall.
10. The statue weighs 225 tons (450,000 pounds).
11. The statue was originally intended to be a lighthouse, but it was deemed impractical.
12. The statue’s official name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”
13. The statue’s crown has seven rays, representing the seven continents and seven seas of the world.
14. The statue’s torch symbolizes enlightenment and knowledge.
15. The statue’s tablet has the date “July 4, 1776” inscribed on it, representing the date of American independence.
16. The statue’s face was modeled after Bartholdi’s mother.
17. The statue’s body was modeled after the goddess Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom.
18. The statue’s right foot is raised, indicating forward motion.
19. The statue’s left foot is flat, symbolizing stability.
20. The statue’s pedestal was designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt.
21. The statue was originally erected on Bedloe’s Island, which was later renamed Liberty Island.
22. The statue was closed to the public after the September 11 terrorist attacks and reopened in 2004.
23. The statue was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
24. The statue was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984.
25. The statue was featured in the 1984 movie “Ghostbusters.”
26. The statue was featured in the 2006 movie “X-Men: The Last Stand.”
27. The statue’s torch was replaced in 1986 as part of the statue’s centennial celebration.
28. The statue is illuminated at night by floodlights.
29. The statue is visible from Manhattan, New Jersey, and Brooklyn.
30. The statue is a popular tourist attraction, with over 4 million visitors each year.
31. The statue is operated by the National Park Service.
32. The statue’s pedestal is made of granite and concrete.
33. The statue’s pedestal contains a museum and gift shop.
34. The statue was closed for renovations from 2011 to 2012.
35. The statue’s torch was closed to the public in 1916 due to safety concerns.
36. The statue was featured on a U.S. postage stamp in 1923.
37. The statue was featured on a U.S. coin in 1986.
38. The statue’s copper sheets are only 3/32 of an inch thick.
39. The statue’s pedestal is 154 feet (47 meters) tall.
40. The statue’s pedestal is made of over 27,000 tons of concrete and granite.
41. The statue’s pedestal contains an elevator to the top.
42. The statue’s pedestal was built by American architect Richard Morris Hunt.
43. The statue’s pedestal was completed in 1886, two years after the statue itself.
44. The statue’s pedestal was funded by donations from American citizens.
45. The statue was originally intended to be located in Egypt, but the plan fell through.
46. The statue was initially unpopular among some Americans, who felt it was too expensive and unnecessary.
47. The statue’s torch was designed to be lit by electricity, a relatively new invention at the time.
48. The statue’s torch was used as a lighthouse for a short time in the late 1800s.
49. The statue has undergone several restorations over the years, including one in the 1980s that cost over $100 million.
50. The statue was closed to the public for several months in 2019 due to a construction project to make the statue’s entrance more accessible.
51. The statue was damaged in 1916 when German saboteurs set off an explosion on nearby Black Tom Island.
52. The statue was closed during World War I and II, as the surrounding area was deemed a potential target for enemy attacks.
53. The statue was used as a backdrop for several scenes in the 2019 movie “Joker.”
54. The statue has been struck by lightning several times over the years, but its internal structure protects it from damage.
55. The statue’s torch was briefly extinguished during the 1977 New York City blackout.
56. The statue’s pedestal was designed to withstand winds of up to 150 miles per hour (240 kilometers per hour).
57. The statue’s crown was closed to the public after the September 11 terrorist attacks and reopened in 2009.
58. The statue’s pedestal was designed to resemble a fortress, with thick walls and small windows.
59. The statue’s pedestal was designed to support the weight of the statue and withstand the force of strong winds and waves.
60. The statue was featured in the opening ceremony of the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
61. The statue’s torch was exhibited at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia before being installed on the statue.
62. The statue’s face was exhibited at the 1878 Paris World’s Fair before being shipped to the United States.
63. The statue was a popular subject of postcards in the early 1900s.
64. The statue was briefly featured on the cover of the New Yorker magazine in 1976, with a cartoon depicting the statue holding a martini glass instead of a torch.
65. The statue was featured on a U.S. stamp in 1986 to commemorate its centennial.
66. The statue was featured on a U.S. stamp in 2010 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of its dedication.
67. The statue has been featured in several songs, including “The Immigrant” by Neil Sedaka and “America the Beautiful” by Ray Charles.
68. The statue has been featured in several TV shows, including “Friends” and “The Simpsons.”
69. The statue has been referenced in several movies, including “An American Tail” and “The Day After Tomorrow.”
70. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque with the poem “The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus, which includes the famous line “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”
71. The statue was briefly closed to the public in 2011 after a bomb threat was made.
72. The statue’s torch was displayed in Madison Square Park in New York City in 1876 to raise funds for the statue’s pedestal.
73. The statue’s full name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”
74. The statue is made of copper and iron, and was designed to last for centuries.
75. The statue’s green color comes from the natural patina that forms on the copper over time.
76. The statue is 305 feet (93 meters) tall from the ground to the tip of the torch.
77. The statue weighs 450,000 pounds (204,116 kilograms).
78. The statue was assembled in France before being disassembled and shipped to the United States.
79. The statue’s designer, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, was inspired by the Colossus of Rhodes, a statue that stood over 100 feet tall and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
80. The statue was a gift from the people of France to the United States to commemorate the centennial of American independence.
81. The statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886.
82. The statue was originally intended to be a joint project between France and Egypt, but the Egyptian government declined to fund it.
83. The statue’s face was modeled after Bartholdi’s mother.
84. The statue’s arm holding the torch was exhibited at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.
85. The statue’s arm and torch were exhibited at the 1878 Paris World’s Fair.
86. The statue’s head was exhibited at the 1878 Paris World’s Fair before being shipped to the United States.
87. The statue’s torch was re-gilded in 1986 as part of the statue’s centennial celebrations.
88. The statue’s torch was replaced in 1984 as part of a major restoration project.
89. The statue’s pedestal is made of concrete and granite, and is 154 feet (47 meters) tall.
90. The statue’s pedestal contains an elevator that takes visitors to the top of the pedestal.
91. The statue’s crown contains 25 windows and 354 steps.
92. The statue’s torch contains 24-karat gold leaf.
93. The statue’s tablet contains the date of American independence in Roman numerals (July 4, 1776).
94. The statue’s tablet contains the inscription “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI.”
95. The statue’s tablet contains a broken chain at the feet of the statue, symbolizing freedom from oppression.
96. The statue’s tablet contains a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and freedom.
97. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque honoring the workers who built it.
98. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque commemorating the centennial of the statue’s dedication.
99. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque honoring the French-American friendship.
100. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque listing the names of the donors who contributed to its construction.
101. The statue’s torch was replaced in 1916 after the original was damaged by a thunderstorm.

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – 25 Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 25 fun facts about the Statue of Liberty that kids might enjoy:

1. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States.
2. The statue is made of copper and iron.
3. The statue’s full name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”
4. The statue was designed to last for centuries.
5. The statue is 305 feet tall from the ground to the tip of the torch.
6. The statue’s green color comes from the natural patina that forms on the copper over time.
7. The statue’s torch contains 24-karat gold leaf.
8. The statue’s crown contains 25 windows and 354 steps.
9. The statue’s tablet contains the date of American independence in Roman numerals (July 4, 1776).
10. The statue’s tablet contains a broken chain at the feet of the statue, symbolizing freedom from oppression.
11. The statue’s pedestal contains an elevator that takes visitors to the top of the pedestal.
12. The statue’s pedestal is 154 feet tall.
13. The statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886.
14. The statue was originally intended to be a joint project between France and Egypt.
15. The statue’s face was modeled after the designer’s mother.
16. The statue’s arm holding the torch was exhibited at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.
17. The statue’s torch was re-gilded in 1986 as part of the statue’s centennial celebrations.
18. The statue’s torch was replaced in 1984 as part of a major restoration project.
19. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque honoring the workers who built it.
20. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque commemorating the centennial of the statue’s dedication.
21. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque honoring the French-American friendship.
22. The statue’s pedestal contains a plaque listing the names of the donors who contributed to its construction.
23. The statue’s tablet contains a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and freedom.
24. The statue’s head was exhibited at the 1878 Paris World’s Fair before being shipped to the United States.
25. The statue is a symbol of freedom and democracy, and is a popular tourist attraction in New York City.

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – History

Here are some historical fun facts about the Statue of Liberty.

The statue was a gift from the people of France to the people of the United States to commemorate the centennial of American independence in 1876. The statue, which was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, was originally intended to be completed in time for the centennial celebration but was not finished until 1884.

The statue was constructed in France and shipped to the United States in pieces. The pedestal on which the statue sits was designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt and constructed on an island in New York Harbor called Bedloe’s Island, which was later renamed Liberty Island.

The statue was assembled on the pedestal and dedicated on October 28, 1886, in a ceremony attended by thousands of people, including President Grover Cleveland. The statue was officially named “Liberty Enlightening the World” and quickly became a symbol of freedom and democracy.

Over the years, the statue has undergone several renovations and restorations to keep it in good condition. In 1984, the statue was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 1986, it underwent a major renovation in honor of its centennial.

Today, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States, with millions of visitors each year. It remains an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy and a testament to the enduring friendship between the United States and France.

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – Design

Here are some fun facts about the Statue of Liberty’s design.

The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. Here are some details about the design of the statue:

The statue stands at a total height of 305 feet, with the statue itself standing at 151 feet and the pedestal at 154 feet. It is made of copper sheets that are only 2.4 millimeters thick, held in place by an iron framework.

The statue depicts a female figure with a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left, on which is inscribed the date of the American Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776. The statue’s face is said to be modeled after Bartholdi’s mother, while the body was modeled after a French artist’s mistress.

The statue wears a robe and a spiked crown, which symbolizes the sun’s rays shining on the seven continents. The tablet in her hand represents the law, and the broken chains at her feet represent freedom from oppression.

The statue was designed with careful attention to detail, including the folds in the robe and the way the torch is held. The design also includes several engineering innovations, such as the use of copper sheets to create a light and durable skin for the statue.

Overall, the design of the Statue of Liberty is a powerful symbol of freedom and democracy, and has become an iconic representation of the United States around the world.

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – Cultural Significance

Here are some fun facts about the Statue of Liberty’s cultural significance.

The Statue of Liberty has great cultural significance as an iconic symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope. Here are some ways in which the statue is culturally significant:

Symbol of Freedom: The statue is one of the most recognizable symbols of freedom in the world. It is often associated with the American Dream and the ideals of liberty and democracy.

Immigration: The statue is also closely associated with immigration. The statue’s pedestal bears a plaque with a poem by Emma Lazarus, which reads, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” This sentiment has made the statue a welcoming symbol to immigrants coming to America.

Tourism: The statue is a major tourist attraction in New York City, and it is estimated that millions of people from around the world visit it each year. This has helped to make the statue an important cultural icon and a symbol of American identity.

Artistic Achievement: The statue is also celebrated for its artistic merit. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest examples of neoclassical sculpture, and its design and construction were major artistic achievements of their time.

International Relations: The statue was a gift from France to the United States, and as such it represents an enduring bond between the two countries. This has helped to make the statue a symbol of international friendship and cooperation.

Overall, the Statue of Liberty is a cultural icon that represents the best of American and international values, and it continues to inspire and captivate people around the world.

Fun Facts About the Statue of Liberty – Tourism

Here are some fun facts about the Statue of Liberty’s Tourism.

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and is a popular tourist attraction for visitors to New York City. Tourists can visit the statue by taking a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

There are several options for visitors, including a basic ticket that allows access to the grounds of Liberty Island and the pedestal of the statue, and a more comprehensive ticket that also allows visitors to climb to the crown of the statue.

Once on Liberty Island, visitors can explore the statue and its history through various exhibits and displays, including the Statue of Liberty Museum which showcases the history and symbolism of the statue, as well as its construction and restoration.

Tourists can also enjoy spectacular views of the New York City skyline from the observation deck at the top of the pedestal, or from the crown of the statue for those who choose to climb up to it.

Overall, the tourism of the Statue of Liberty offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors from around the world, allowing them to learn about the history and symbolism of this iconic monument, while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.

About the Statue of Liberty – Legends

Another fun fact about the Statue of Liberty is that there are several interesting legends and stories associated with the Statue of Liberty. Here are a few examples:

The Broken Chains: One of the most famous legends about the statue is that the broken chains at the feet of the statue represent the end of slavery in the United States. However, this is not actually the case as the chains represent the broken chains of tyranny and oppression.

The Face of the Statue: There is a legend that the face of the Statue of Liberty was modeled after the artist’s mother. However, this is not true as the face of the statue was actually modeled after a French woman named Charlotte Beysser Bartholdi.

The Missing Torch Flame: There is a legend that the flame of the torch on the Statue of Liberty was once extinguished and never relit. However, this is not true as the flame has been lit continuously since it was first installed in 1986.

The Copper Color: There is a legend that the Statue of Liberty was once a bright, shiny gold color but has since turned green due to weathering. However, the statue was originally designed to be made of copper and was always intended to turn green over time as it aged.

These legends and stories have contributed to the enduring mythos and symbolism of the Statue of Liberty, making it an even more fascinating and iconic monument for visitors and locals alike.

About the Statue of Liberty – Symbols

The Statue of Liberty is a powerful symbol of freedom, democracy, and the United States itself. Here are some of the key symbols associated with the statue:

The Torch: The torch held by the statue symbolizes enlightenment and the search for knowledge.

The Crown: The crown of the statue features seven rays, which represent the seven continents and the seven seas of the world.

The Tablet: The tablet held by the statue’s left hand bears the date “July 4, 1776,” representing the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.

The Broken Chains: The chains at the feet of the statue represent the breaking of the chains of tyranny and oppression, symbolizing freedom and democracy.

The Color Green: The green color of the statue is due to the natural oxidation of the copper material over time, but it has come to represent growth, vitality, and freedom.

The Pedestal: The pedestal upon which the statue stands symbolizes the foundation of democracy and the importance of a strong and stable base for society.

Together, these symbols create a powerful and enduring image of freedom and democracy, representing the ideals upon which the United States was founded and inspiring generations of visitors and citizens alike.

Other Interesting Things About the Statue of Liberty – Quotes

In addition to the fun facts about the statue of liberty, there have been many powerful and inspiring quotes about the Statue of Liberty throughout history. Here are some examples:

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” – Emma Lazarus, from her poem “The New Colossus,” which is inscribed on a plaque at the base of the statue.

“I lift my lamp beside the golden door.” – Emma Lazarus, from the same poem.

“The Statue of Liberty is more than a monument. It is a symbol of freedom and opportunity that draws people to our shores.” – George H.W. Bush, former President of the United States.

“The Statue of Liberty, that impressive statue with its torch, has since 1886 been welcoming in New York Harbor all those who, across the Atlantic, see America as a land of freedom.” – Francois Hollande, former President of France.

“The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of what makes America great, a welcoming beacon of freedom that has greeted generations of immigrants seeking a better life in America.” – Charles Schumer, United States Senator.

These quotes demonstrate the enduring power and significance of the Statue of Liberty, as well as the hope and inspiration it has provided to generations of people seeking freedom and opportunity.

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