Statue of Liberty

Rising from Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world—a universal symbol of freedom, hope, and the enduring spirit of the American dream. For millions, Lady Liberty was the first glimpse of America, her torch lighting the way toward opportunity and new beginnings.

Table of Contents

• What the Statue of Liberty Represents
• Visiting Liberty Island & Ellis Island
• The History and Design of Lady Liberty
• Preservation & Restoration Efforts
• Meet the Artist: Rob Decker

What the Statue of Liberty Represents

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States, designed to commemorate the centennial of American independence and celebrate the shared values of liberty and democracy. She has since become far more than a diplomatic gesture—she’s a global beacon of hope.

Clutching a tablet inscribed with the date of American independence (July 4, 1776) and raising a torch to the skies, Lady Liberty stands for freedom from oppression and a welcome to all who yearn to breathe free. At her feet lies a broken shackle and chain, symbolizing liberation from tyranny.

Visiting Liberty Island & Ellis Island

Statue of Liberty National Monument includes both Liberty Island and nearby Ellis Island—where more than 12 million immigrants passed through on their way to becoming American citizens. Visiting the site is a moving experience, blending breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline with the emotional power of personal history.

Highlights include:

• The Statue of Liberty Pedestal – Offering panoramic views of New York Harbor and insightful museum exhibits about the statue’s construction.
• The Crown – For those willing to climb the 354 steps, the crown provides a unique and symbolic perspective from within Liberty herself (reservations required!).
• Ellis Island Immigration Museum – A deeply personal and national story told through photographs, documents, and family histories.

Whether you're a history buff, a patriot, or simply someone in awe of colossal architecture, this national monument is unforgettable.

The History and Design of Lady Liberty

Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and built with the engineering genius of Gustave Eiffel (yes, the Eiffel Tower guy), the statue was completed in France in 1884, disassembled, shipped across the Atlantic, and unveiled in 1886 in a ceremony attended by President Grover Cleveland.

Made of copper and standing over 305 feet from ground to torch, the statue was an extraordinary feat of engineering and symbolism. The statue's green color? That’s a natural patina formed over time—proof of her endurance and resilience.

Preservation & Restoration Efforts

Over the years, Lady Liberty has required a bit of TLC. A major restoration took place ahead of her centennial in 1986, when artisans and engineers worked tirelessly to stabilize and refurbish the monument. More recently, the Statue of Liberty Museum opened in 2019, providing even more context and exhibits for visitors.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the National Park Service, the Statue of Liberty–Ellis Island Foundation, and private citizens, this world-renowned monument continues to inspire millions each year. It’s a living reminder of who we are and what we aspire to be.

Click here to see the Statue of Liberty National Monument poster.

Meet the Artist: Rob Decker

Rob Decker is a nationally acclaimed photographer and graphic artist who studied under the legendary Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. With more than five decades behind the lens, Rob is on a mission to capture the soul of America’s national parks through WPA-style poster artwork.

Each design is inspired by Rob’s firsthand experience exploring these treasured places—including his visit to Liberty and Ellis Islands. His posters are printed on 100% recycled paper using soy-based inks and support ongoing conservation efforts. In fact, Rob donates 10% of annual profits to organizations that preserve and protect our parks and public lands.

When you collect one of Rob’s posters, you’re not just bringing a piece of iconic artwork into your home—you’re helping to preserve the legacy of these incredible places for future generations.

Join the growing community of 125k+ National Park enthusiasts to receive insider deals and updates.