Skip to SearchSkip to NavigationSkip to BodySkip to Footer
National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Washington Monument National MonumentWashington Monument
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly

George Washington

The Washington Monument is the most prominent structure, as well as one of the earlier attractions, in Washington, D.C. It was built in honor of George Washington, who led the country to independence and then became its first President. The Monument is shaped like an Egyptian obelisk, stands 555’ 5 1/8” tall, and offers views in excess of thirty miles. It was finished on December 6, 1884.

 
 
 
 
 

Write to

National Mall and Memorial Parks
900 Ohio Drive SW
Washington, DC 20024

Phone

Visitor Information
(202) 426-6841

Park Headquarters
(202) 485-9880

Climate

Washington has a temperate climate typical of the Mid-Atlantic U.S., with four distinct seasons. Summer tends to be very hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild. Winter can bring cold temperatures, frozen precipitation and, on occasions, major snowstorms.
Skip to SearchSkip to NavigationSkip to BodySkip to Footer
James Buchanan, 15th President: 1857-1861  

Did You Know?
The only president that never married. The White House hostess was his niece, Harriet Lane. In 1819, Buchanan became engaged to Ann Coleman. A misunderstanding took place and their engagement was broken. A short time later, Ann died. Buchanan vowed he would never marry.

Last Updated: October 22, 2008 at 19:26 EST