Ahoy, matey! Gather 'round and hear the tale of the Washington Square Arch, a grand stone sentinel standin' proud in New York's Washington Square Park. This here arch be inspired by the Roman triumphal arches, and it be built to honor the first Captain of the United States, George Washington himself.
History
In the year of our Lord 1889, the city of New York celebrated the centennial of George Washington's inauguration as the first President. 'Twas a temporary arch made of wood and plaster that first graced the park. Designed by Stanford White, a master builder from the firm McKim, Mead & White. The locals loved it so much that they decided to make a permanent one from marble.
In 1892, the permanent arch was completed. She be 77 feet tall and carved from Tuckahoe marble, a fine stone indeed. The arch stands at the northern gateway of Washington Square Park, a bustling place where scholars, musicians, and all manner of folk gather.
Trivia and Hidden Facts
- The arch has two grand statues of George Washington himself: one as Commander-in-Chief, and t'other as President. These statues were added in 1918 and were sculpted by Alexander Stirling Calder and Herman MacNeil.
- Look close, matey, and ye'll spy a hidden keystone inside the arch. It be a likeness of Stanford White, the original designer.
- The arch be a silent witness to many a protest and gathering over the years, includin' the famed Beatnik Riot of 1961.
- In the days of yore, the park was a burial ground. Aye, over 20,000 souls rest beneath the square, mainly poor folk and victims of yellow fever.
- The arch is decorated with intricate carvings, includin' symbols of war and peace, such as the owl and the sword.
Fun Facts
- A time capsule be buried in the arch, containing newspapers and artifacts from the year it was built. Who knows what treasures lie within?
- The arch is often lit up for holidays and special events, making it a beacon in the night for all to see.
- In 1965, the arch was declared a New York City Landmark, protectin' it from the ravages of time and developers' greed.
So there ye have it, a brief but hearty tale of the Washington Square Arch. Arr, what a sight to behold!