6 Secrets of the Washington Monument

Lightning rods, hidden hatches, and more.

by Elliot Carter

6 Places

Of the myriad memorials and places across the U.S. named for the first American president, the Washington Monument is the most iconic. The 555-foot obelisk attracts some 800,000 visitors each year, who come to admire the view from the tallest stone structure in the world.

What most onlookers don’t know is that the landmark pillar is hiding several secrets, quirks, and forgotten histories that are all too easy to miss without close inspection. Take a look at some of these fascinating stories you won’t get on the official tour.

Washington, D.C.

Washington Monument Marble Stripe

Look closely and you’ll notice that the color changes a third of the way up the tower.

Elliot Carter

Added by Elliot Carter

Washington, D.C.

Washington Monument Access Hatch

Daredevil repair workers can worm their way out the access hatch, loop ropes over the apex and rappel down the monument.

Elliot Carter

Added by Elliot Carter

Washington, D.C.

Washington Monument Lightning Rod

The monument's pointy aluminum tip has been melted down by repeated lightning strikes.

Elliot Carter

Added by Elliot Carter

Washington, D.C.

Washington Mini Monument

There's a 12-foot-tall replica of the famous monument hidden underground nearby.

Elliot Carter

Added by Elliot Carter

Middletown, Maryland

The (First) Washington Monument

The original Washington Monument is located 50 miles away, in Boonsboro, Maryland.

jmsliker

Added by jmsliker

Washington, D.C.

Babcock Lake Fisheries

The U.S. Fish Commission’s effort to mass produce carp.

Elliot Carter

Added by Elliot Carter

Map