Statue of Freedom facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Statue of Freedom |
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Statue of Freedom (model, 1854-1857; cast 1860–1862)
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| Artist | Thomas Crawford |
| Dimensions | 5.9 m (19.5 ft) |
| Weight | 15,000 pounds (6,800 kg) |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| 38°53′24″N 77°0′32.4″W / 38.89000°N 77.009000°W | |
The Statue of Freedom is a large bronze statue of a woman. It stands proudly on top of the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C.. This important statue was finished in 1863.
The woman in the statue is not a real person. Instead, she is a symbol. She stands for the idea of freedom and independence. She holds a shield and a laurel wreath in one hand. In her other hand, she holds a sword that is safely in its case.
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What is the Statue of Freedom?
The Statue of Freedom is a very important part of the Capitol building. It represents the spirit of the United States. The statue is made of bronze and weighs about 15,000 pounds (6,800 kg). It is about 19.5 feet (5.9 meters) tall.
Who Created This Famous Statue?
The Statue of Freedom was designed by a sculptor named Thomas Crawford. He was an American artist who lived from 1814 to 1857. Crawford created the model for the statue between 1854 and 1857. Sadly, he passed away before it was finished.
How Was the Statue Made?
After Crawford made the model, the statue was cast in bronze. This process happened between 1860 and 1862. Casting means pouring melted metal into a mold. This creates a strong, lasting sculpture. The statue was then placed on the Capitol dome in 1863.
What Does the Statue Represent?
The Statue of Freedom is full of meaning. Every part of it tells a story about freedom and strength.
The Woman's Appearance
The woman in the statue wears a helmet with an eagle's head and feathers. This eagle is a symbol of the United States. She also wears a flowing robe.
Objects She Holds
In one hand, she holds a shield. This shield represents protection and defense. She also holds a laurel wreath, which is a symbol of victory and honor. The sword she holds is in its case, showing that she is ready for peace but also prepared to defend freedom if needed.
History of the Statue
The statue has been on top of the Capitol building for a long time. It has seen many important events in American history.
When Was It Installed?
The Statue of Freedom was put into place during the American Civil War. It was a time when the country was divided. Its placement in 1863 was a powerful message of unity and hope for the future.
The 1993 Restoration
In 1993, the Statue of Freedom was removed from the Capitol dome. This was done for five months. Workers cleaned and repaired the statue. This process is called restoration. It helps preserve the statue for future generations.
Images for kids
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Statue on top of Capitol building (2007)
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Statue of Freedom's plaster model in the Capitol Visitor Center
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Series 1862 $5-note
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U.S. $5 postage, 1923.
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Medal of Freedom (1945).
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Iraq Campaign Medal, 2004.
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Secretary of Defense Medal for the Global War on Terrorism, 2007.
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