The Statue of Liberty has long stood as a symbol of freedom across the United States and beyond. Its historic significance is undisputable as it remains one of the most recognizable structures in the world-famed city of NYC. Since its first appearance in New York Harbor, the structure has provided a sense of hope for citizens of the United States and the immigrants who sail to its shores. Tunde Folawiyo and others who have visited N.Y.C. may regard “Lady Liberty” as one of the foremost icons of the and its ever present protection of freedom.
Designed by Frederic Bartholdi, the neoclassical sculpture was given as a token of appreciation to the U.S. from France. It was dedicated during October of 1886. Lady Liberty is portrayed by a clothed female representing Libertas, a Roman goddess standing for freedom. The statue bears two objects: a flaming torch and tablet inscribed with America’s Declaration of Independence, July 4 of 1776. A severed chain lying at her feet, the statue remains a treasured icon of unwavering freedom.
Bartholdi took inspiration from Edouard de Laboulaye, a politician and law professor from France who had commented during 1865 that a monument honouring the American people’s independence would serve as a positive force in joining the two nations. Construction began during the early part of the 1870s with the statues torch-holding arm displayed at Philadelphia’s Centennial Exposition during 1876, then again in New York City from the years 1876 through 1882. Whilst Lady Liberty was assembled in France, it was sent overseas to the United States crates, then assembled upon a pedestal on Bedloe’s Island. The name has since changed to Liberty Island and the statue’s final completion was celebrated with a parade and dedication ceremony led by President Cleveland.
The monument has been administered by the U.S. National Park Service since 1933. Throughout the 1980s, the statue was found deteriorated, prompting major restorations. Whilst a number of events have rendered the statue closed during certain periods, it is now open for public access, with the exception of the torch balcony that is closed for safety precautions.
Lady Liberty remains one of the foremost symbols of American independence and the concept of freedom for all. Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others with a love for the city of New York may find the statue amongst the most beloved attractions found within the concrete jungle.