Lady Liberty - Statue of Freedom

Over 120 years ago the people of France gave an enormous gift to the people of the U.S. celebrating the friendship that was established during the American Revolution. This gift, of course, is the Statue of Liberty. Over time this copper clad lady has grown to represent freedom and escape from oppression to people all over the world. Her location on Liberty Island in the New York Harbor made her the first thing immigrants saw after their long ocean voyage to America. To this day the Statue of Liberty is an icon of the U.S. and a symbol of not only international friendship, but also a welcome to everyone who enters our country.

While the Lady herself is familiar to each one of us, the individual aspects of the Statue are not as well known. The tiara has 7 spikes, representing the 7 continents and seas. The stone tablet that she holds close to her heart is inscribed with the date of our Independence Day, July 4, 1776, with the numbers written in Roman numerals. The torch held high in her right hand is obviously a symbol of enlightenment, but also doubled as a fully functioning lighthouse for 16 years. The light from her torch could be seen for 24 miles. Her right foot appears to be moving forward while her left foot is crushing the shackles of tyranny and oppression.

The Statue of Liberty is one American treasure that everyone should visit at least once. Remember, this is a National Monument maintained by the National Park Service. You will need to pass through a security screening to board the ferry. Visiting Lady Liberty will be an unforgettable experience for all.