THE STATUE OF LIBERTY is probably the nation’s most familiar iconic symbol of patriotism and independence. It also represents freedom for the entire world. For over a century now, her right torch-filled hand has been extended in the air providing a light that has pointed millions of immigrants to the liberty capital of the world.

THE STATUE OF LIBERTY was presented to the United States by France in the late 19th century. It stands at the mouth of the Hudson River in New York Harbor as a welcome to all returning Americans, visitors, and especially millions of immigrants who come looking for opportunity, freedom, prosperity, and liberty. The copper statue was a centennial gift from France to the U.S. and a sign of friendship between the two countries. The statue personifies American ideals, much like Uncle Sam. In a more general sense, the statue represents liberation from tyranny, dictatorship, communism, and monarchy.

LADY LIBERTY holds a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left. The tablet shows the caption July 4, MDCCLXXVI, the date of the Declaration of Independence. One of her feet stands on chains. The seven spikes in her crown represent the seven seas, or seven continents, of the world. The height from the ground to the tip of the torch is 305 feet (or 93 meters). This includes the foundation and pedestal. The height of the statue itself from the top of the base to the torch is 151 feet (or 46 meters).


The many thousands of immigrants traveling to the United States all breathlessly awaited their first look of LADY LIBERTY. Keep in mind they came from countries where they had no rights, very few possessions and could be put in prision or even killed because of their race or religion.

THE STATUE OF LIBERTY represented a chance and opportunity for them to live, work and worship as they chose-basic human freedoms that many people today take for granted. Immigrants put their lives on the line for just a chance to have these freedoms