An Iconic Arch

This Day in History: October 28, 1965

Dual monumental celebration is shared on this day in history almost 80 years apart. Their commonality focuses on a gateway: the Gateway to America and the Gateway Arch.

On October 28, 1886, the last rivet of Lady Liberty was fitted during a dedication in New York Harbor in celebration of An Iconic Gift from France. Within the shadow of the Statue of Liberty lies Liberty Island, formerly Ellis Island, that represented the Gateway to America for over twelve million immigrants from 1982 to 1924. The statue became a symbol of welcome for all immigrants coming to America, as well as a universal symbol of freedom. 

Gateway Arch
Image Credit: en.wikipedia.com

On this day in history almost 80 years later into the 20th century, on October 28, 1965, the tallest man-made monument in the United States, actually the Western Hemisphere, was completed: the Gateway Arch, a spectacular 630-foot-high parabola of stainless steel marking the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial on the waterfront of St. Louis, Missouri. Construction began on February 29, 1964.

GATEWAY ARCH CONSTRUCTION PHOTO SEQUENCE:
FEBRUARY 29, 1964 THROUGH "TOPPING OUT" ON OCTOBER 28, 1965.
(PHOTOS: WWW.NPS.GOV)

This iconic monument symbolizes Westward expansion by honoring the spirit of pioneers who traversed hazardous terrain and conditions by horseback and wagon train to seek their fortunes west of the Mississippi River. The grandeur of this architectural wonder is breath-taking to say the least offering the opportunity for visitors to see 30 miles in every direction and veer 200 years into the past when Lewis and Clark set out on their great expedition.

How much do you know about the Gateway Arch? 

Test Your Knowledge:

• Why was the Gateway Arch built? 
• How tall is the Gateway Arch? 
• How wide is the Gateway Arch?
• How wide are the legs at the base? 
• How wide is the top? 
• How many stainless steel sections? 
• How deep are the foundations? 
• How much does the Gateway Arch weigh? 
• Who was the architect? 
  
• Does the Arch sit exactly North & South?
• What is the speed of the tram capsules? 
• How much did building the Gateway Arch cost? 
• When was the Gateway Arch project started?  
• When was the last piece put into place? 
• How long has the Gateway Arch been open?
• When was the Museum of Westward Expansion opened? 
• How often do the trams go up? 
• How many people can the trams take to the top of the Gateway Arch in one hour? 
• How many stairs are there? 
• Can guests walk the stairs? 
• Does the Arch sway? 
• What river is directly below? 
• How big is the viewing area at the top?
• How far can you see in either direction at the top? 
• Which side is Missouri and which is Illinois?

[Answers to these questions and more can be found at Arch Facts & FAQ.]

What other iconic Gateway is celebrated on October 28?
It's An Iconic Gift!