The Women's Monuments in Washington DC
Monuments and memorials to women are few and far to come by, most of the monuments around the Nation’s Capital are in commemoration of men. But this does not mean that women have fallen short when it comes to the growth of the Nation.
Women have accomplished amazing feats, and they continue to lead the way in today’s age. Washington D.C.’s Mayor Muriel Bowser is an excellent example of a female leader that is doing more than anyone before her.
She inspires creativity throughout the city with her YouTube channel and group called 202 Creates and is currently drafting new legislation called the Safe Cannabis Sales Act of 2019. This legislation hopes to use the revenue for affordable housing, and she does it all while hosting parades and events around Washington, D.C.
This is a woman on fire, the women before her who took initiatives to create change in the Nation have taken matters into their own hands and fought for change.
Change not for women, but for society as a whole, and that is why they stand out and are commemorated in stone.
Important Highlights of Women's Monuments and Memorials in Washington D.C.
Women’s Contributions to History Are Honored in Washington D.C.: Washington D.C. is home to several monuments and memorials that commemorate the significant contributions women have made to the nation, despite the city’s historical focus on male figures.
The Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality Monument: Recognized as a national monument in 2016, the Belmont-Paul Monument honors the women who fought for women’s equality and the right to vote, including the National Woman’s Party and figures like Alice Paul.
Joan of Arc Monument: Located in Meridian Hill Park, this monument honors the bravery of Joan of Arc, who, at just 13 years old, led France to victory in battle. The statue was gifted by Femmes de France in 1922, marking the victory of women’s suffrage in the U.S.
Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial: A statue of Eleanor Roosevelt stands in the F.D.R. Memorial, honoring her tireless efforts for human rights and gender equality, particularly through her leadership of the Presidential Commission on the Status of Women in 1961.
Exploring More Women’s Memorials Across D.C.: In addition to the Belmont-Paul and Joan of Arc monuments, Washington D.C. has a wealth of memorials dedicated to other influential women, including the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House, the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum, and the Jane A. Delano Memorial.
The Women’s National Memorial: The only memorial dedicated to women in military service in the United States, it stands as a testament to the bravery and patriotism of women who served in the military.
Clara Barton National Historic Site: Honoring Clara Barton’s humanitarian efforts during times of war and peace, this site celebrates the legacy of the founder of the American Red Cross.
The Importance of Women’s Stories: The monuments and memorials in Washington D.C. reflect the long history of women fighting for equality, healthcare, and civil rights. Visiting these sites allows individuals to connect with and learn from their inspiring legacies.
Explore Washington D.C. to Celebrate Women’s History: The city’s monuments and memorials serve as important reminders of the vital roles women have played in shaping the nation, encouraging visitors to explore and reflect on their contributions.
Commemorating the Centennial of the 19th Amendment: As we approach the centennial of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, it’s a perfect time to explore D.C.’s monuments and honor the women who fought for equality and change.
The Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality Monument
Joan of Arc Monument in Meridian Hill Park DC
Everyone has heard of Joan of Arc, but did you know she was so young? In 1412 when Joan of Arc was just 13 years old, she heard voices from the saints and went out to fight for France.
She fearlessly said, “I am not afraid… I was born to do this.” Then she went off to battle and successfully drove the English from Orleans in 1429. She was however captured shortly after and burned at the stake for heresy.
While she may not have been recognized for her accomplishments back then, she sure has been recognized as a martyr for France throughout history.
Thus on January 6, of 1922 the Femmes de France of New York gifted the statue of Joan of Arc to the Women of the United States of America just two years after they won the right to vote!
There have been a couple of discrepancies, and apparently, someone does not like her appearance in Washington D.C. because Joan’s sword has been stolen on and off for the last 80 years. The last one cost a whopping 18,000 dollars to replace, but our lady from France still sits high upon her horse in honor.
You can head to 16th St NW &, W St NW, to see her shine.
Monument to Eleanor Roosevelt in DC
This first lady is a powerhouse that could not be ignored. She inspired people across the nation to follow the beauty of their dreams.
She worked hard beside the world to fight for human rights, and besides women as the first appointed head of the Presidential Commission on the Status of Women in 1961. There she released a revolutionary case-study about gender discrimination.
Her fight for human rights, and for gender equality lasted a lifetime, and we honor this incredible woman with her statue, which lies in the F.D.R memorial on 1850 West Basin Dr in SW Washington D.C.
Walking the Women’s Path through the Monuments and Memorials to Women Across DC
Although we only highlighted three incredible women here, there are more monuments and memorials that ballad sweet melodies to women who have impacted the Nation.
We encourage you to listen to the stories of the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women that unfold at the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House.
To dig your fingers into the libraries and archives of the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum. This is a society that was founded on October 11, 1890, and still remains active to this day.
To leave your fears behind at the Jane A. Delano Memorial which stands in courage and represents the beginning of the societal revolution in health care. It honors hundreds of civil war nurses, who gave their lives on the battlefield.
To walk among the only standing memorial for women in military service in the United States of American at the Women’s National Memorial and to feel the patriotism and bravery which resonates therein.
To feel the energy that echoes off the walls of the Clara Barton National Historic Site which now serves as a great women’s monument in DC and is remembered for helping others in need during times of peace and times of war.
The Women’s Ballad
Women throughout history have made a difference in the Nation whether they are recognized for it, burned at the stake for it, thrown into jail for it, or honored for their service.
They stood up and sang from the depths of their heart to write a ballad that is remembered and surpasses time.
Although they are rarely highlighted, it is great to take the time to reverberate in their stories, listen to their words, and follow their footsteps in mornings wake.
If you live at one of our apartments get out and explore your city of Washington D.C. in honor of the centennial of the drafting of the 19th Amendment!
Connect With Us
Have questions or need assistance finding your perfect DC apartment? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact us today!
“Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Women’s Monuments and Memorials in Washington D.C.
What is the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality Monument?
The Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality Monument honors the women who fought for women’s suffrage in the United States. It became a national monument in 2016, 100 years after the National Woman’s Party was founded. Located in Washington, D.C., it celebrates the efforts of women like Alice Paul and Alva Belmont, who played vital roles in securing the right to vote for women through the 19th Amendment in 1919.
What is the significance of the Joan of Arc Monument in Washington D.C.?
The Joan of Arc Monument in Meridian Hill Park commemorates the French heroine who led troops to victory at the age of 17. The monument was gifted to the women of the United States in 1922, shortly after women won the right to vote. Despite challenges such as the repeated theft of Joan’s sword, the monument remains a tribute to her courage and martyrdom for France.
What does the Monument to Eleanor Roosevelt represent?
The Monument to Eleanor Roosevelt in Washington, D.C. honors the former first lady’s tireless advocacy for human rights and gender equality. Roosevelt was appointed the first head of the Presidential Commission on the Status of Women and worked throughout her life to improve the rights of women and marginalized groups. Her statue, located at the F.D.R. Memorial, stands as a symbol of her lasting influence on society.
Are there other monuments dedicated to women in Washington D.C.?
Yes, Washington D.C. has several other monuments and memorials dedicated to women. These include the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House, the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum, and the Jane A. Delano Memorial, which honors Civil War nurses. Other memorials include the Women’s National Memorial, which honors women in military service, and the Clara Barton National Historic Site, dedicated to the founder of the American Red Cross.
What is the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House?
The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House is the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women. It serves as a monument to Bethune’s dedication to the rights and advancement of African American women and families. The building is a historical site in Washington, D.C. that honors her legacy as a teacher, civil rights leader, and founder of the National Council of Negro Women.
What is the significance of the Jane A. Delano Memorial?
The Jane A. Delano Memorial honors the work of civil war nurses who gave their lives to care for soldiers on the battlefield. Jane A. Delano herself was instrumental in organizing and leading the Red Cross nursing services during World War I. The memorial represents a pivotal moment in healthcare and women’s contributions to the field during wartime.
What does the Women’s National Memorial in D.C. honor?
The Women’s National Memorial is the only standing memorial dedicated to women in military service in the United States. Located in Washington, D.C., it honors the contributions of women in the armed forces, commemorating their patriotism, bravery, and dedication throughout history.
Why is Clara Barton’s National Historic Site important?
The Clara Barton National Historic Site, located in Washington D.C., honors the legacy of Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. The site represents Barton’s selfless contributions during both peacetime and wartime, helping to establish a major humanitarian organization that has had a lasting global impact.
What is the legacy of women’s monuments and memorials in Washington D.C.?
Women’s monuments and memorials in Washington D.C. represent the perseverance, contributions, and sacrifices of women throughout history. Although these monuments are fewer in number compared to those honoring men, they highlight the integral role women have played in shaping the nation. These monuments are essential for educating the public and recognizing the significant achievements of women in areas like suffrage, healthcare, civil rights, and military service.
