Washington Monument (West Point) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Washington Monument (West Point) |
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| United States | |
Washington's equestrian statue on the Monument
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| For George Washington | |
| Unveiled | 1916 |
| Location | 41°23′31.20″N 73°57′27.96″W / 41.3920000°N 73.9577667°W near |
| Designed by | Henry Kirke Brown |
The Washington Monument at West Point is a special statue at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. It's an equestrian monument, which means it shows a person riding a horse. This particular statue honors George Washington, a very important leader in American history.
The statue you see at West Point is a copy, or replica, of an older statue. The original was made by a sculptor named Henry Kirke Brown in 1856. It was the first horse-and-rider statue ever made in the United States! This replica was brought to West Point in 1916 thanks to Clarence P. Towne. It was first placed at the north end of a large field called the Plain. Later, in 1971, it was moved to its current spot outside Washington Hall.
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About the Washington Monument Statue
This impressive statue shows George Washington on horseback. It is made of bronze, a strong metal. The original statue, created by Henry Kirke Brown, was a big deal when it was first made. It was the very first equestrian statue cast in the United States. This means it was the first time a large statue of a person on a horse was made by pouring melted metal into a mold in America.
Who Was George Washington?
George Washington was a key figure in American history. He was the commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This war helped the United States gain its independence from Great Britain. After the war, he became the first President of the United States. He is often called the "Father of His Country."
Why is it at West Point?
The United States Military Academy at West Point is a famous school for training army officers. It's a fitting place for a statue of George Washington. He was a great military leader and a symbol of American strength and freedom. The monument reminds students and visitors of his important role in the nation's founding.
History of the Statue
The original statue was designed by Henry Kirke Brown. It was first put up in Union Square in New York City in 1856. This was a major artistic and engineering achievement for its time.
Bringing it to West Point
Years later, a replica of this famous statue was obtained for West Point. This happened thanks to Clarence P. Towne. The statue was officially dedicated, or unveiled, at West Point in 1916. It quickly became an important landmark on the campus.
Moving the Monument
When it was first dedicated, the statue stood at the north end of the Plain. This is a large parade ground at West Point. However, in 1971, a building called Washington Hall was expanded. To make space and improve the area, the monument was carefully moved. It now stands proudly outside the front entrance of Washington Hall, where many people can see it.
Images for kids
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Washington's equestrian statue on the Monument
