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General Grant National Memorial (Grant's Tomb)

By Lauren Himiak, About.com

General Grant National Memorial (Grant's Tomb)

General Grant National Memorial is located near the intersection of Riverside Dr. and West 122nd St. in New York City.

© Photoglot via Flickr
Location:

Near the intersection of Riverside Dr. and West 122nd St. in New York City.

Contact Info:

Mail:Riverside Drive and 122nd St., New York, NY 10027

Phone: 212-666-1640

Email: gma@grantstomb.org

Overview:

This memorial to Ulysses S. Grant, the Union commander who brought the Civil War to an end, holds the tombs of General Grant and his wife, Julia Dent Grant. Grant served as the country's 18th President – from 1869-1877- and signed the act establishing the first national park, Yellowstone, on March 1, 1872.

History:

Ulysses S. Grant was one of the great figures in American history. During war and throughout his presidency, he sought peace and equality for all Americans. His death created one of the largest outpourings of public grief in history, and Grant's Tomb became one of the most popular American landmarks. However, as time moved on, so did Grant's legacy.

Over the course of the 20th century, Grant's reputation suffered and his final resting place was ignored leading to decay. The Grant Monument Association called the nation's attention to the condition of Grant's Tomb during the 1990's, and led to continued restoration and support of the historic monument.

The granite and marble building was completed in 1897 and designed by architect John Duncan. It is the second largest mausoleum in the Western Hemisphere. The National Park Service administration authorized Grant's Tomb as a national monument on August 14, 1958.

Activities:

Ranger guided programs and tours are offered throughout the day. Costumed interpreters are on hand to explain Grant's role during the Civil War and his Presidency. The mausoleum also contains numerous exhibits depicting Grant's the life and accomplishments.

Operating Hours:

Grant's Tomb is open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 7 days a week. The site is closed on Thanksgiving Day (the third Thursday in November), Christmas Day (December 25), and New Year's Day (January 1).

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