The large statue in New York that was built in France and then transported to the USA is the Statue of Liberty. This iconic monument, a universal symbol of freedom and democracy, has a rich history tied to its transatlantic journey.
Origins and Construction in France
The Statue of Liberty, officially known as Liberty Enlightening the World, was conceived as a gift from the people of France to the people of the United States. Its construction was a monumental undertaking that took place entirely in France.
- Design and Engineering: Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with its internal structure engineered by Gustave Eiffel (who later designed the Eiffel Tower), the statue's intricate design required years of dedicated work.
- Construction Period: The actual construction of the statue in France spanned nearly a decade, beginning in 1875 and concluding in 1884. During this period, the colossal copper figure was meticulously crafted, piece by piece, in Parisian workshops.
The Transatlantic Journey to New York
Once completed in France, the sheer size of the Statue of Liberty meant it could not be transported in one piece. It had to be carefully disassembled for its voyage across the Atlantic.
- Disassembly: The statue was taken apart into 350 individual pieces.
- Shipment: These pieces were then packed into 214 crates and loaded aboard the French frigate Isère. The ship departed from Rouen, France, and arrived in New York Harbor in 1885.
Assembly and Unveiling on Liberty Island
Upon its arrival in New York, the disassembled statue awaited the completion of its pedestal on what was then called Bedloe's Island (now Liberty Island).
- Reassembly: The intricate process of reassembling the 350 pieces on the completed pedestal began swiftly. This meticulous work took several months.
- Completion and Inauguration: The Statue of Liberty was fully reassembled and officially dedicated on Liberty Island in 1886. Since its installation, certain components, such as the torch, have undergone redesigns and restorations over the years to preserve the statue's integrity and appearance.
Key Milestones of the Statue of Liberty's Journey
The following table summarizes the significant dates in the Statue of Liberty's construction and relocation:
| Event | Year |
|---|---|
| Construction began in France | 1875 |
| Construction completed in France | 1884 |
| Disassembled and shipped to New York | 1885 |
| Reassembled and dedicated in New York | 1886 |
The Statue of Liberty stands as a testament to international friendship and a beacon of hope for millions, its French origins being a fundamental part of its unique story.
