Lafayette Square, Washington, D.C facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lafayette Square |
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Aerial view of Lafayette Square (foreground).
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| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| Area | 7 acres (2.8 ha) |
Lafayette Square is a seven-acre public park in Washington, D.C.. It is located right in front of the White House on H Street. The park is surrounded by Jackson Place to the west, Madison Place to the east, and Pennsylvania Avenue.
The park is named after the Marquis de Lafayette. He was a French hero who helped America win the American Revolution. Inside the park, you can find a large statue of Andrew Jackson, who was an early 19th-century President and general. Lafayette Square and the buildings around it became a National Historic Landmark District in 1970. This means they are important historical places.
History of Lafayette Square
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Lafayette Square was first planned as part of the beautiful grounds around the White House. It was originally called "President's Park." Today, "President's Park" is the name for the larger area that includes the White House lawn.
In 1804, President Thomas Jefferson had Pennsylvania Avenue built through the park. This road separated what would become Lafayette Square from the White House grounds. In 1824, the park was officially renamed to honor the Marquis de Lafayette. He was a French military leader whose help was very important for America to win the American Revolutionary War.
Over the years, Lafayette Square has been used for many different things. It was once a place for horse races, a burial ground, and even a small zoo. It also served as a camp for soldiers during the War of 1812. Today, it is a popular spot for political protests and celebrations.
The current design of the park, with its five large statues, was created in the 1930s. In the very center of the park is an equestrian statue of President Andrew Jackson. An equestrian statue shows a person riding a horse. This statue was made by Clark Mills and put up in 1853.
In the four corners of the park, you will find statues of other heroes from the Revolutionary War. These heroes came from other countries to help America. They include:
- Major General Marquis Gilbert de Lafayette and Major General Comte Jean de Rochambeau from France.
- Brigadier General Thaddeus Kosciuszko from Poland.
- Major General Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben from Prussia.
Lafayette Square is also known for the White House Peace Vigil. This is the longest-running anti-nuclear peace protest in US history. It was started by Thomas and Concepcion Picciotto.
Images for kids
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Clark Mills' equestrian statue of President Andrew Jackson, erected in 1853
See also
In Spanish: Lafayette Square para niños
