A new museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. is set to open in June, revealing a hidden history that has been concealed for over a century. The museum, located in the memorial’s Undercroft, showcases 120 massive concrete pillars that support the weight of the marble above, as well as stalactites that are still dripping with water.
The Undercroft, a 50,000 square foot space, has never been seen by the public before, according to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. Philanthropist David Rubenstein donated $69 million to transform the space into a museum, which will provide a more educational role for the Lincoln Memorial. Rubenstein hopes that the museum will expand our understanding of Abraham Lincoln and his complicated life.
Lincoln Memorial History
The Lincoln Memorial has played a significant role in America’s changing ideas of freedom, according to Howard University historian Edna Greene Medford. The memorial has been a stage for various groups to interpret freedom in their own way, including the civil rights movement. In 1939, contralto Marian Anderson performed at the memorial, delivering the opening notes to a decades-long battle for civil rights.
The museum touches on this history, but its opening comes at a time when other national park sites are removing signs and reviewing exhibitions related to slavery and racism. The administration claims it is “restoring truth and sanity to American history,” but the question remains as to who gets to determine the truth. Secretary Burgum believes that there is a place for current cultural debates, but also a place to simply tell and celebrate our history.
Implications and Reactions
The new museum invites visitors to see the Lincoln Memorial in its entirety, including the imperfections underneath. This fitting view is perhaps a reflection of Lincoln’s own life, which was marked by tragedy and complexity. The museum’s opening is a significant event, as it provides a new perspective on American history and the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality.
The implications of the museum’s opening are far-reaching, as it challenges visitors to reconsider their understanding of the Lincoln Memorial and its role in American history. As the country continues to grapple with issues of racism and inequality, the museum serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and honoring our history.
