Eternal Light Flagstaff facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eternal Light Flagstaff |
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| Artist | Design: Thomas Hastings Sculpture: Paul Wayland Bartlett |
| Year | 1923-24 |
| Type | Sculpture and flagstaff |
| Medium | Sculpture: granite, bronze Flagstaff: metal |
| Location | Madison Square Park Manhattan, New York City |
| 40°44′31″N 73°59′19″W / 40.74205°N 73.98871°W | |
The Eternal Light Flagstaff is a special monument in Madison Square Park in Manhattan, New York City. It was officially opened on November 11, 1923. This day was called Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I. The monument remembers American soldiers who fought in that war. It also honors their return home in 1918, which was celebrated right here in the park.
The monument was designed by architect Thomas Hastings. It includes a tall flagpole and a sculpture by Paul Wayland Bartlett. A wealthy businessman named Rodman Wanamaker paid $25,000 to have it built. The entire project was finished in 1924.
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What is the Eternal Light Flagstaff?
The flagstaff is about 125-foot (38 m) tall. When it was first built, the flagpole was made of a type of wood called Oregon pine. In 1976, it was replaced with a stronger metal one.
The Ever-Burning Star
At the very top of the flagpole is a special light shaped like a star. This star is meant to stay lit all the time. It's a tribute to those who lost their lives in the war. The lights inside are connected in a clever way. If one part of the lighting system stops working, another part immediately takes over. This ensures the star always shines.
The Base of the Monument
The flagpole stands on a decorative base made of pink granite. This base has a bronze top with carvings of garlands and rams' heads. The base also has important words carved into it. These words list the names of battle sites. They also honor the soldiers, sailors, and marines who died in the war.
The Inscription's Message
Part of the message carved into the monument reads:
An Eternal Light
An inspiration
and a Promise of
Enduring Peace
This star was lighted
November XI MCMXXIIIIn memory of those who have
made the supreme sacrifice
for the triumph of the
Free Peoples of the World
This message reminds everyone of the monument's purpose. It speaks of lasting peace and remembers the great sacrifices made.
Famous Visitors and the Monument
In 1927, a famous pilot named Charles Lindbergh visited the monument. He was celebrating his amazing flight across the Atlantic Ocean. During a large parade, he placed a special wreath on the monument. So many people came to see him that the barriers holding the crowd back broke. Police officers had to link arms to form a human chain and keep everyone safe.
Part of the City's Art Collection
The Eternal Light Flagstaff is an important piece of public art. It is part of the "Art in the Parks" collection. This collection is managed by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
