The Landscape Architect’s Guide to

Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool

Your Guide

The Lincoln Memorial, which is found at the western terminus of the National Mall, is one of the most visible and evocative symbols of our nation. The location, identified in the 1902 McMillan Plan, was to be a gateway to the district, hold commanding views to the Capitol and the river, and be approached by flights of stairs. The main formal axis to and from the memorial – including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument – as well as day and night sky and weather conditions, along with all kinds of celebrations, are mirrored in the Reflecting Pool.

Learn more about the history of the Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool.

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Civil Rights in America

The Lincoln Memorial has been the site of many notable events, particularly in the history of civil rights. A groundbreaking concert by Marian Anderson took place at the memorial in 1939, and the memorial was the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I have a dream” speech in 1963. The location of King’s speech is noted with a carved inscription on the steps of the memorial.

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Pre-Inaugural Event

2009 – President Barack Obama's pre-inaugural event at the Lincoln Memorial attracted huge crowds.

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Aerial View

The Lincoln Memorial landscape is comprised of three distinct areas: the Reflecting Pool; the Lincoln Circle and Radial Roads; and the Watergate Steps area. The circular road has been converted to a pedestrian plaza. The Watergate Steps leading to the Potomac River were envisioned as an entry point and once provided seating for a concert barge. The Arts of Peace (Music / Harvest and Aspiration /Literature) and the Arts of War (Valor and Sacrifice) flanking the Watergate Steps and Arlington Memorial Bridge were a gift from Italy (1951).

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Trampled Grass Before Reconstruction

Originally, there was no pool recirculation. The pool coping was on pilings but the base was not and shifted, resulting in extensive leakage. As part of the current restoration project, the pool is being updated to circulate water from the Tidal Basin. Now, less water is required and the result is reduced use of potable water. Accessible walkways and security have been added along the length of the pool. North and south elm walks have been replaced and lighting added.

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Looking out to the Capitol

View from the south side of Lincoln Memorial with Reflecting Pool, Rainbow Pool at Worlld War II, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol.

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Reflecting Pool at Night

The Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool take on a different character at dusk.

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Birthday Celebration

Lincoln's birthday celebration honors the 16th president. The Lincoln and Grant memorials, both dedicated in 1922, emphasize the different roles each president played in the Civil War and continued national union.

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Staircase to be Rebuilt

The staircase to the Reflecting pool is part of the circulation system being rebuilt. Note the butterfly joints in stone paving.

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Carving Detail

Lincoln Memorial stone carving detail showing state names and statehood year.

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More Detail

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