What is the weight of the St. Louis Gateway Arch?

The Gateway Arch is a distinctive landmark located in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. It is known for its unique shape and impressive height, standing at 630 feet tall. This iconic monument has been a well-known symbol of St. Louis since its completion in 1965. However, many people are often curious about the weight of the Gateway Arch. In this article, we will explore the history, design, construction, purpose, dimensions, materials, weight, and maintenance of this remarkable monument.

A Brief History of the St. Louis Gateway Arch

The idea for the Gateway Arch originated in the 1930s when Luther Ely Smith, a prominent St. Louis attorney, proposed a memorial to celebrate the westward expansion of the United States. It took more than two decades to bring the project to fruition. The design was developed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, who won a national competition in 1947 with his unique, curving arch design. Groundbreaking for the Gateway Arch took place on February 12, 1963, and it was completed on October 28, 1965.

Design and Construction of the Gateway Arch

The design of the Gateway Arch was inspired by the idea of commemorating the spirit of westward expansion, symbolized by the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. The arch shape represents the Gateway to the West, through which pioneers passed on their way to settle new territories. The arch was constructed using a unique method known as the "balanced cantilever" technique. This involved building the arch from both sides simultaneously and then meeting in the middle. The arch is composed of two legs made of stainless steel, each with a triangular cross-section of about 54 feet at the base, tapering to 17 feet at the top. The two legs are connected at the top by a curved section known as the "keystone."

What is the Purpose of the Gateway Arch?

The Gateway Arch was built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States and to celebrate the pioneering spirit of the American people. It also serves as a symbol of St. Louis, the "Gateway to the West." The arch is a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year to enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck at the top.

Dimensions and Materials Used in Building the Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch stands 630 feet tall and is 630 feet wide at the base. The stainless steel used to construct the arch is about 3/16 inch thick and covers a surface area of 142,662 square feet. The arch is approximately four times taller than the Washington Monument in Washington D.C. and about 75 feet taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza.

How was the Gateway Arch Built?

The Gateway Arch was built using a balanced cantilever method, with construction beginning from both sides simultaneously. Workers used cranes to hoist the curved steel sections into place, with the help of a series of cables and pulleys. The two legs of the arch were built using a series of triangular trusses, which were then covered in stainless steel panels. The keystone section was then lowered into place, after which the legs were stabilized by adding concrete and steel support structures.

How Much Does the Gateway Arch Weigh?

The Gateway Arch weighs approximately 43,220 tons, or 86.44 million pounds. This weight includes the stainless steel skin, the concrete and steel support structures, and the foundation. The arch is firmly anchored in a concrete foundation, which extends 60 feet below ground level.

Factors That Affect the Weight of the Gateway Arch

Several factors affect the weight of the Gateway Arch. These include the size and height of the arch, the materials used in its construction, and the foundation required to anchor the structure securely. The arch is also subject to wind and temperature fluctuations, which can cause it to expand and contract slightly and affect its weight.

How Does the Weight of the Gateway Arch Compare to Other Landmarks?

Compared to other famous landmarks, the Gateway Arch is relatively light. For example, the Eiffel Tower in Paris weighs approximately 10,100 tons, while the Empire State Building in New York City weighs about 365,000 tons. However, the Arch’s weight is still significant, and it required careful planning and engineering to ensure its stability and longevity.

Maintenance and Preservation of the Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch is a national monument, and as such, it requires regular maintenance and preservation efforts to keep it in good condition. The National Park Service is responsible for maintaining the Arch and ensuring its long-term preservation. This includes monitoring the structure for signs of wear and tear, repairing any damages, and conducting periodic inspections to ensure its safety.

Conclusion

The Gateway Arch is an iconic monument that symbolizes the spirit of westward expansion and the pioneering spirit of the American people. Its unique design, construction, and purpose have made it a beloved symbol of St. Louis and a popular tourist attraction. The arch’s weight is significant but relatively modest compared to other famous landmarks, and its maintenance and preservation are critical to ensuring its longevity for future generations to enjoy.

References and Further Reading

National Park Service. (n.d.). Gateway Arch. Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.nps.gov/jeff/planyourvisit/gateway-arch.htm

Saarinen, E. (n.d.). Gateway Arch. Retrieved September 16, 2021, from
St. Louis Gateway Arch. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.gatewayarch.com/
The Gateway Arch. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from