Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Opens to the Public
A century-old secret hidden beneath the Lincoln Memorial is now accessible to the public, thanks to a recent video released by the U.S. Department of the Interior. It showcases previously unseen views of the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Visitors can explore the newly opened Lincoln Memorial Undercroft, an impressive 15,000-square-foot museum located directly below the monument, free of charge but with advance reservations required.
For years, this vast underbelly has remained vacant, characterized by a two-story layout and supported by a network of 122 massive concrete columns.
This museum project, which has taken ten years to develop, received substantial financial backing—$26 million from federal sources and another $48 million through the National Park Foundation. Construction is set to officially commence in 2023, according to National Mall Trust’s communications vice president, Julie Moore.
A glass exhibition area now resides within this unique structure beneath the statue of Abraham Lincoln.
Guests can expect interactive displays, multimedia video presentations, and a bookstore. The Department of the Interior highlights several historical treasures on display, including the original copies of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment, both signed by Lincoln.
Moreover, the museum offers an inside look at the monument’s construction during the 1920s, showcasing authentic tools and graffiti left by workers at the time.
Beyond its structural significance, Moore explains that the crypt tells a larger story about how the Lincoln Memorial has developed into a vital “civic stage” in America.
Displays highlight significant historical events related to civil rights, such as the 1939 concert by Marian Anderson and the March on Washington.
Reservations can be made through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Visitors may book their spots up to 30 days in advance and can also purchase walk-up tickets on a first-come, first-served basis at the Korean War Veterans Memorial kiosk, which opens at 8:45 a.m. local time.
