| FDR Memorial in Washington DC | |
| Room 1: The First Term | |
Though visitors can access the memorial from several directions, I highly recommend that you start at the beginning. Since the memorial is organized chronologically, it would be easier to follow if started near this sign. This large sign with President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's name creates an imposing and strong entrance to the memorial. To the left of this wall, sits the memorial's bookshop. The opening to the right of this wall is the entrance to the memorial. However, before you go further, take a close look at the statue to the far right.
This ten-foot statue of FDR in a wheelchair caused a great deal of controversy. In 1920, more than a decade before he was elected president, FDR was struck by polio. Though he survived the illness, his legs remained paralyzed. Though FDR used a wheelchair while in private, he hid his ailment from public view by using supports to help him stand. When constructing this memorial, many argued whether or not to present FDR in a position that he had so diligently hid from view. Yet, his efforts to overcome his handicap well represented his determinism. In the end, it was decided to create this statue, a monument to FDR as he truly lived.
Throughout this memorial you will find several waterfalls. This one creates a beautiful sheet of water. I have been told that in the winter, the water freezes - some say, making it even more beautiful.
The FDR Memorial is very large, covering 7.5 acres. Every corner has some kind of display, statue, quote, or waterfall. Unfortunately, I was not able to photograph every detail. However, I think this view will give you more of a feeling of being there than some of the other, more specific, photographs. This is the walk from Room 1 to Room 2.
Next page > Room 2 > Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
All photographs taken and copyrighted by Jennifer Rosenberg.
