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The Hidden Stories Of The National Mall

Published:

by Sashenka Schreck

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Have you ever walked through the National Mall and wondered about its hidden stories? This iconic stretch in Washington, D.C., is more than just monuments and museums. Each corner holds tales of history, art, and culture waiting to be uncovered. From the whispers of past protests to the silent witnesses of historic speeches, the National Mall is a living tapestry of American heritage. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, exploring these lesser-known stories can make your visit even more memorable. Ready to dive into the secrets of the National Mall? Let's take a closer look at what lies beneath the surface.

The National Mall: A Historical Treasure

The National Mall in Washington, D.C., is more than just a collection of monuments and museums. It holds stories that shaped the nation. Let's uncover some hidden gems.

Hidden Memorials

Beyond the well-known landmarks, several lesser-known memorials tell unique tales.

  1. The District of Columbia War Memorial: Dedicated to D.C. residents who served in World War I, this small, elegant structure often goes unnoticed. It offers a peaceful spot for reflection.

  2. The George Mason Memorial: Honoring the lesser-known Founding Father, George Mason, this memorial celebrates his contributions to the Bill of Rights. Nestled near the Tidal Basin, it provides a quiet retreat.

  3. The Titanic Memorial: Commemorating the men who gave their lives so women and children could survive, this statue stands along the Potomac River. Its serene location adds to its poignant message.

Secret Gardens

Amidst the grandeur, the National Mall hides beautiful gardens perfect for a quiet stroll.

  1. Constitution Gardens: This 50-acre park features a small lake and an island dedicated to the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence. It's a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

  2. The Mary Livingston Ripley Garden: Tucked between the Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building and the Hirshhorn Museum, this garden showcases a variety of plants. It's a delightful spot for nature lovers.

  3. The Enid A. Haupt Garden: Located behind the Smithsonian Castle, this Victorian-style garden offers a lush, green space with beautiful fountains and seasonal flowers.

Lesser-Known Museums

While the Smithsonian museums are famous, a few lesser-known ones offer unique exhibits.

  1. The National Museum of the American Indian: This museum highlights the history, culture, and art of Native Americans. Its stunning architecture and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit.

  2. The National Postal Museum: Located near Union Station, this museum explores the history of the U.S. postal service. It features interactive exhibits and an impressive stamp collection.

  3. The National Building Museum: Housed in a historic building, this museum focuses on architecture, design, and urban planning. Its grand Great Hall is a sight to behold.

Hidden Art

Art lovers will find hidden masterpieces scattered throughout the National Mall.

  1. The Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden: This sunken garden features modern and contemporary sculptures. It's a peaceful place to appreciate art away from the crowds.

  2. The Arts and Industries Building: Often overshadowed by its neighbors, this building hosts rotating exhibits that showcase a variety of artistic and cultural themes.

  3. The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden: This garden offers a mix of classic and modern sculptures. The ice rink in winter adds a touch of magic.

Unseen Views

For breathtaking views of the National Mall, seek out these hidden vantage points.

  1. The Old Post Office Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. It's less crowded than the Washington Monument but offers equally stunning vistas.

  2. The U.S. Capitol Dome: Tours of the Capitol often include a visit to the dome, providing a unique perspective of the Mall and beyond.

  3. The Washington Monument Lodge: Located at the base of the monument, this lodge offers a lesser-known viewpoint of the surrounding area.

Hidden Stories in Plain Sight

Even the most famous landmarks have hidden stories waiting to be discovered.

  1. The Lincoln Memorial's Typo: Look closely at the north wall of the Lincoln Memorial. You'll find a typo in the inscription of Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address, where "FUTURE" was initially carved as "EUTURE."

  2. The Washington Monument's Color Change: Notice the slight color change about one-third of the way up the monument. Construction halted during the Civil War, and when it resumed, the stone came from a different quarry.

  3. The Jefferson Memorial's Missing Word: Inside the Jefferson Memorial, one of the inscriptions quotes the Declaration of Independence but omits the word "God." This was a deliberate choice by the memorial's designers.

Discover the National Mall's Hidden Stories

The National Mall isn't just a place for monuments and museums. It's filled with hidden stories that add depth to its history. From the Tidal Basin's cherry blossoms gifted by Japan to the Whispering Gallery in the Capitol, there's so much more than meets the eye. The Smithsonian Gardens offer a peaceful retreat, while the Lockkeeper's House stands as a reminder of the Mall's past. Even the Washington Monument has secrets, like the different stones used in its construction. Next time you visit, take a moment to explore these lesser-known spots. They make the National Mall even more special. So, whether you're a history buff or just curious, there's always something new to learn. Dive into these hidden gems and see the Mall in a whole new light.