My BF and I recently spent an afternoon at Grant’s Tomb. Located at 122 Street and Riverside Drive, the grounds of the stately building are a lush and peaceful. The adjoining playground and park was filled with families, students from the nearby Columbia University and folks from the neighborhood who were just out enjoying the beautiful weather.
One of the most interesting and memorable elements of the grounds is the fanciful mosaic benches that surround the monument. Pedro Silva and the City Arts Workshop sponsored the brightly colored artwork that was created by children utilizing Italian glass tiles in 1973. Some years ago, there was talk about removing the benches because they were "garish" and were devaluing the memorial. Contrary to that belief, I think the installation is actually an attraction and should be promoted as one of the unique elements of this landmark.
The quiet and unassuming memorial was erected on April 27, 1897 and the dedication parade featured over 60,000 marchers. Originally, plans had been made to bury Ulysses S. Grant at his alma mater, West Point, but he refused because his wife, Julia Grant would not be allowed to be buried next to him. Therefore Grant himself selected the alternative location where a place could be reserved for his beloved wife. Upon his death from throat cancer on July 23, 1885, his family finalized the location in Riverside Park because it was one of the highest elevations in the city and it overlooked the Hudson River. In a recess in the center of the room, stand the two majestic sarcophagi where President and Julia Grant rest side-by-side. Grant's tomb is currently the largest mausoleum in North America.
There are 2 simple displays that relate the notable incidents of President Grant’s life including his military career and significant events of his presidential terms. There are also some display cases that show a few historic mementos such as photos and remembrances given to the President from friends and loved ones.
Towards the end of his life, Grant and his family were plagued with debit from bad investments and were facing poverty and bankruptcy. Therefore, the former President accepted an offer from Mark Twain to publish his memoirs. Grant past away only days after finishing the work and it is said that his desire to complete it kept him alive. His memoirs were extremely popular selling over 300,000 copies and earning a substantial sum which provided the much needed financial income for his family.
It is generally acknowledged that a more adequate visitor's center would be needed to properly memorialize the contributions and achievements of President Grant. I agree. While there is beauty in simplicity, Grant was an incredibly important figure in American history and culture. He led the nation during one of its most uncertain periods following the Civil War and was tasked with reunifying a suspicious and war-weary population. He deserves a permanent installation that does justice to the service he provided this country.
Our trip to Grant's Tomb was quiet and introspective. The mausoleum itself is impressive and well worth the visit especially for folks with an interest in American history.
One of the most interesting and memorable elements of the grounds is the fanciful mosaic benches that surround the monument. Pedro Silva and the City Arts Workshop sponsored the brightly colored artwork that was created by children utilizing Italian glass tiles in 1973. Some years ago, there was talk about removing the benches because they were "garish" and were devaluing the memorial. Contrary to that belief, I think the installation is actually an attraction and should be promoted as one of the unique elements of this landmark.
The quiet and unassuming memorial was erected on April 27, 1897 and the dedication parade featured over 60,000 marchers. Originally, plans had been made to bury Ulysses S. Grant at his alma mater, West Point, but he refused because his wife, Julia Grant would not be allowed to be buried next to him. Therefore Grant himself selected the alternative location where a place could be reserved for his beloved wife. Upon his death from throat cancer on July 23, 1885, his family finalized the location in Riverside Park because it was one of the highest elevations in the city and it overlooked the Hudson River. In a recess in the center of the room, stand the two majestic sarcophagi where President and Julia Grant rest side-by-side. Grant's tomb is currently the largest mausoleum in North America.
There are 2 simple displays that relate the notable incidents of President Grant’s life including his military career and significant events of his presidential terms. There are also some display cases that show a few historic mementos such as photos and remembrances given to the President from friends and loved ones.
Towards the end of his life, Grant and his family were plagued with debit from bad investments and were facing poverty and bankruptcy. Therefore, the former President accepted an offer from Mark Twain to publish his memoirs. Grant past away only days after finishing the work and it is said that his desire to complete it kept him alive. His memoirs were extremely popular selling over 300,000 copies and earning a substantial sum which provided the much needed financial income for his family.
It is generally acknowledged that a more adequate visitor's center would be needed to properly memorialize the contributions and achievements of President Grant. I agree. While there is beauty in simplicity, Grant was an incredibly important figure in American history and culture. He led the nation during one of its most uncertain periods following the Civil War and was tasked with reunifying a suspicious and war-weary population. He deserves a permanent installation that does justice to the service he provided this country.
Our trip to Grant's Tomb was quiet and introspective. The mausoleum itself is impressive and well worth the visit especially for folks with an interest in American history.
Insider Tips:
- Check out the Grant Monument Association's website for more information about the memorial and President Grant.
- Check out the National Parks Service website for special events.
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