The Capstone of the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument, completed in 1884, stands at an impressive height of 555 feet 5.125 inches. The capstone at the top of this iconic obelisk is one of its most striking features. This article explores the details of the capstone, its materials, and the historical context of the monument's completion.

Historical Context and Construction

The construction of the Washington Monument began in 1848 and faced numerous challenges, including funding issues and the American Civil War, which caused a nearly two-decade suspension in construction from 1854 to 1877. (History Culture - Washington Monument)

After the Civil War, Congress took action to fund the construction, overseeing the efforts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers led by Lt. Col. Thomas Lincoln Casey. (History Culture - Washington Monument)

The Capstone: A Symbol of Perfection

The capstone at the peak of the monument is made of aluminum and is 8.9 inches tall, weighing just 100 ounces. (The Point of the Matter U.S. National Park Service) This small but significant piece signifies the culmination of over three decades of construction efforts.

Achieving the Tallest Structure

On December 6, 1884, Lt. Col. Casey supervised the placement of the 3300-pound capstone. This event marked the completion of the Washington Monument, which subsequently became the tallest building in the world. The aluminum tip was then placed atop the capstone to great public celebration.

Significance and Legends

Contrary to popular belief, the Washington Monument is not capped with the same stone that composes the rest of the structure. Instead, the monument uses three different types of stone from different quarries, resulting in three slightly different colors. This diversity contributes to its timeless and awe-inspiring appearance. (Washington Monument - Wikipedia)

The aluminum tip, weighing only 100 ounces, was the final touch, symbolizing the pinnacle of achievement and the perfection of the structure. The monument serves as both a physical and symbolic tribute to George Washington, the 'Father of the Country,' and his indispensable leadership in the founding of the United States.

Conclusion

The Washington Monument, a gleaming testament to George Washington's legacy, stands as a timeless symbol of America's strength and unity. Its capstone, made of aluminum, marks the perfect height and completes a journey that began nearly four decades ago. Visitors to the monument can stand in awe, not only of Washington's genius but also of the architectural marvel that stands as a reminder of a great nation's enduring spirit.

For more information and updates on the Washington Monument, visit the official website.

Keywords: Washington Monument, Obelisk, Aluminum Tip