The Iconic Washington Monument
The Washington Monument is an iconic obelisk located in the National Mall of Washington, D.C. It stands tall at 555 feet and represents the first president of the United States, George Washington. The monument has been a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of American patriotism since its completion in 1884. The monument is made of two types of stones, with the exterior being the more visible. This article explores the type of rock used to cover the Washington Monument’s exterior.
The Importance of the Exterior Stone
The exterior stone of the Washington Monument plays a crucial role in its appearance, durability, and legacy. The monument’s exterior stone protects the internal structure from environmental damage, such as weathering, erosion, and pollution. The exterior stone also gives the monument its distinctive appearance and reflects the craftsmanship and technology of the time. The exterior stone of the Washington Monument has been a subject of interest and discussion for many years, with experts examining the type, origin, characteristics, and maintenance of the stone.
The Origin of the Washington Monument Stone
The exterior stone of the Washington Monument is made of marble from Maryland. The marble is known as Cockeysville Marble and is sourced from the Beaver Dam quarry in Cockeysville, Maryland. The quarry was owned by the Baltimore County government and supplied marble for various public buildings, including the Washington Monument, the United States Capitol, and the Baltimore City Hall. The Cockeysville Marble was chosen for the Washington Monument because it was readily available, affordable, and of excellent quality.
The Selection Process for the Exterior Stone
The selection process for the exterior stone of the Washington Monument was rigorous and involved various experts, committees, and resources. The process started in 1836, with the establishment of a committee to oversee the monument’s design and construction. The committee sent agents to various locations to gather information about available stones and their suitability for the monument. The agents reported back to the committee, which then evaluated the stones based on their physical, chemical, and aesthetic properties. The committee eventually chose the Cockeysville Marble as the primary exterior stone for the monument.
Characteristics of the Chosen Stone
The Cockeysville Marble has several characteristics that made it suitable for the Washington Monument. Firstly, the marble is strong and durable, able to withstand weathering and other forms of environmental damage. Secondly, the marble has a consistent texture and color, giving the monument a uniform appearance. Thirdly, the marble has a warm, creamy color that complements the monument’s design and purpose. Finally, the marble is easy to work with, allowing for intricate carving and detailing.
The Color and Texture of the Exterior Stone
The color and texture of the Cockeysville Marble give the Washington Monument its unique appearance and character. The marble has a warm, beige color, with slight variations depending on the location of the quarry. The marble also has a smooth, velvety texture, with subtle veins and patterns that add depth and richness to the stone. The color and texture of the marble change with the angle of the sun, creating a dynamic and vibrant effect.
The Durability of the Exterior Stone
The Cockeysville Marble is known for its durability and longevity, making it an ideal material for the Washington Monument. The marble has a low susceptibility to weathering and erosion, which means it can withstand exposure to rain, wind, and other environmental factors. The marble is also resistant to chemical reactions, which means it can resist the effects of pollution and acid rain. The durability of the marble ensures that the Washington Monument will stand for generations to come, as a testament to American history and culture.
Challenges Faced During the Installation
The installation of the exterior stone of the Washington Monument was a complex and challenging task, involving many skilled workers, tools, and techniques. The workers had to transport the marble from the quarry to the construction site, then cut and polish the stone to fit the monument’s design. The workers also had to lift and place the stone at various heights and angles, using cranes and scaffolds. The installation process was prone to accidents and delays, with some workers suffering injuries and some stones breaking during transportation or installation.
Maintenance of the Exterior Stone
The exterior stone of the Washington Monument requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and appearance. The National Park Service, which manages the monument, conducts periodic cleaning, repair, and preservation activities, such as removing stains, repairing cracks, and sealing joints. The maintenance activities are done using specialized equipment and materials, such as steam cleaners, epoxy resins, and sealants. The maintenance of the exterior stone is essential to keep the monument in pristine condition and to honor its historical and cultural significance.
Alternatives to the Chosen Stone
There were several alternatives to the Cockeysville Marble for the Washington Monument, including granite, sandstone, and limestone. However, these stones were either too costly, too heavy, or too porous for the monument’s design and location. Granite, for example, was considered too difficult to carve and transport, while sandstone was too porous and prone to erosion. Limestone was also porous and susceptible to weathering, making it unsuitable for a monument of this scale and importance. The Cockeysville Marble was therefore the best choice for the Washington Monument, considering its availability, affordability, and suitability.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Stone
The exterior stone of the Washington Monument is an essential element of its design, durability, and legacy. The Cockeysville Marble, with its distinctive color, texture, and durability, has been a symbol of American pride and patriotism for over a century. The stone has withstood the test of time and continues to inspire visitors and admirers from all over the world. The Washington Monument is a testament to the ingenuity, perseverance, and vision of the people who built it and the stone that covers it.
References and Further Reading
- "Washington Monument." National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
- "Cockeysville Marble." Maryland Geological Survey.
- "The Washington Monument." Architect of the Capitol.
- "The Washington Monument: The First Hundred Years." National Park Service.
- "Stonework on the Washington Monument." Engineering News, vol. 11, no. 14, 1884, pp. 201-202.
