Who Owns the Statue of Liberty?

The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, stands proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. But who actually owns this iconic landmark? While many might assume it belongs to the city or state of New York, the answer is a bit more complex.

A Gift from France

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States, presented in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. The statue itself was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and its metal framework was constructed by Gustave Eiffel, the engineer behind the famous Eiffel Tower.

Federal Ownership

Upon its arrival in the United States, the Statue of Liberty was initially placed under the care of the U.S. government. In 1924, the statue and Liberty Island were officially transferred to the National Park Service, making it a part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. This designation means that the statue and the island are considered federal land, managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Shared Responsibility

While the federal government owns the Statue of Liberty, the responsibility for its upkeep and maintenance is shared by several entities. The National Park Service manages the island and the statue, overseeing its preservation and visitor experience. The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, a non-profit organization, plays a crucial role in fundraising and supporting restoration efforts. In addition, the City of New York provides certain services, such as ferry transportation to the island.

A National Treasure

The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and hope for generations, is not just a landmark but a national treasure. Its ownership by the federal government ensures its preservation and accessibility for future generations. The shared responsibility of various organizations reflects the collective commitment to safeguarding this iconic symbol of American history and ideals.

Key Takeaways

• The Statue of Liberty is owned by the U.S. federal government.
• It is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument.
• The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation supports restoration and fundraising efforts.
• The City of New York provides ferry transportation to the island.