What Did the Washington National Monument Society Put into the Walls of the Washington Monument?

The Washington National Monument Society, established with the mission to oversee the construction of the iconic Washington Monument, implemented a unique donation program aimed at commemorate various entities and figures of the time. This article delves into the details of what was placed into the monument's walls and cornerstone, highlighting the inspired efforts and the logistical challenges faced.

A Donated Treasures Collection

From 1844 to 1884, the Washington National Monument Society solicited donations from across America and even internationally. The goal was to create a collection of commemorative stones representing different U.S. states, cities, fraternal organizations, and prominent figures. Unfortunately, logistical challenges and changes in the monument's construction plans limited the number of stones and objects that could be included.

Memorial Stones

Around 193 memorial stones were initially intended for inclusion in the monument. These were provided by various sources, including state, local, and foreign assemblies. Notable organizations such as the Freemasons also contributed their own commemorative stones. Despite the initial plan, not all of these stones were ultimately incorporated into the monument's structure due to logistical and structural considerations.

Structural Integrity and Weight

During the construction phase, it was decided to limit the number of memorial stones in order to ensure the structural integrity of the monument. Including too many stones would have added excessive weight to the walls, potentially compromising the monument's stability. As a result, only a portion of the donated stones was actually installed within the building. The specific locations of these stones are not publicly disclosed for preservation reasons.

The Cornerstone of Great Significance

In contrast, the cornerstone of the Washington Monument was a different story. During the initial dedication ceremony in 1848, the cornerstone was placed with a plethora of valuable and historically significant items. These included a Bible, the United States Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and a wide array of documents and artifacts that were deemed worthy of being preserved at the monument's base.

Preserving History

The Society's aim was not only to honor the past but also to ensure that future generations could learn from these historical artifacts. The inclusion of these items within the cornerstone serves as a testament to the importance placed on preserving America's founding documents and historical records.

Conclusion

While the Washington National Monument Society's vision was to create an impressive collection of memorial stones within the monument, practical considerations and structural constraints meant that only a portion of the donated stones were actually included. The cornerstone, however, retains a wealth of historical items that continue to fascinate and educate visitors to this day.

Exploring the contents of the Washington Monument's walls and cornerstone offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the United States, the challenges faced during its construction, and the enduring significance of the monument itself.