Washington Monument
Attraction
4.7 (20035 reviews)
Landmark obelisk rising from the National Mall that honors America's first president.
2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024
+1 202-426-6841
Did You Know?
Early Beginnings
The idea for the Washington Monument was first proposed in 1833 by the Washington National Monument Society, a private organization founded by James Madison and Chief Justice John Marshall.
Original Design
The initial design for the monument featured a flat-topped obelisk with a statue of George Washington in a chariot, along with statues of 30 Founding Fathers.
Earthquake Survivor
In 2011, the monument withstood a 5.8-magnitude earthquake, which caused cracks and loosened mortar. It was closed for repairs until 2014.
Pre-Presidential Plans
Plans for a monument to George Washington were first discussed in 1783, even before he was elected president. The Continental Congress voted to erect a statue of him in the nation's capital.