"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." (Emma Lazarus, inscription at base of the Statue of Liberty)
Day 17 of my celebration of True American Pride. Today I remember the Statue of LIberty. If there is any one single monument that represents the best of this country to the rest of the world, it is this. A gift from the nation of France in 1886 to celebrate mutual friendship and the abolition of slaves in the U.S., the statue has greeted millions of visitors and immigrants, and has been a symbol of hope and new beginnings for all.
And there is no denying that the United States still remains that kind of place: a refuge where dreams can and do come true, if you're willing to work hard and become part of the great American "melting pot".
Few know of the intended symbolism of key features of the Statue. The crown: Represents Lady Liberty's halo enlightening the world. The torch: A symbol of progress towards freedom. The tablet: A book of laws indicating that this nation is governed by laws. All of this deserves to be recognized and honored.
Here are 10 fun facts about this iconic American landmark:
1. The statue’s full name is Liberty Enlightening the World.
2. The statue measures 305 feet (30 stories) and weighs 204 metric tons.
3. Visitors have to climb 354 stairs to reach the statue’s crown.
4. The seven spikes on the crown represent the seven oceans and the seven continents of the world, indicating the universal concept of liberty.
5. The statue’s face was said to be modeled after the sculptor’s mother, Charlotte.
6. On windy days when winds can reach 50 mph, the statue can sway as much as 3 inches.
7. Thomas Edison wanted to install a large phonograph inside the statue with speakers that were loud enough to be heard as far as the northern part of Manhattan.
8. The Statue of Liberty is struck by approximately 600 bolts of lightning each year.
9. The disassembled statue was shipped to the U.S. from France in 350 different pieces. It required four months to put together.
10. It was originally reddish brown but turned green over the years.
I think it's safe to say that all Americans came here from somewhere else. hoping for a new start. That is the essence of America. My ancestors came from Germany and Finland. And I think it's also safe to say that the vast majority of Americans recognize that our nation's strength comes in part from our diversity...and that we welcome all those who come to this country - peacefully and legally - to be part of this great nation. God bless America