The Memorials Around the Tidal Basin

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial surrounded by fall foliage on the Tidal Basin

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Tidal Basin

Significance:

Reservoir in Washington, DC

Amenities

8 listed

Benches/Seating, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Parking - Auto, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Restroom - Family, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Wheelchair Accessible

The Jefferson, Roosevelt, and King memorials connect, both chronologically and thematically, clockwise around the Tidal Basin. 
 

Thomas Jefferson lived April 13, 1743 – July 4, 1826. 

The memorial was authorized by Congress on June 26, 1934.  

Official dedication date: April 13, 1943 
 

Franklin Delano Roosevelt lived January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945. 

The memorial was authorized by Congress on August 11, 1955. 

Official dedication date: May 2, 1997 
 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Lived January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968. 

The memorial was authorized by Congress on November 12, 1996. 

Official dedication date: August 28, 2011 

The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, set forth ideals for this country. Many of Roosevelt’s New Deal programs provided economic opportunity for those that needed help. King’s work in the Civil Rights Movement to attain fairer social and economic opportunity sought to make the ideals contained in the Declaration of Independence a reality for all Americans. The beginning and end goal are one.