Statue of Liberty’s ‘Little Sister’ Embarks on Journey to the U.S.
A Symbol of Friendship Across the Atlantic
A replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty, known affectionately as “Little Sister,” is embarking on a journey from France to the United States. This smaller version of the famed monument symbolizes the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Ellis Island Welcomes ‘Little Sister’
The 992-pound, 9.3-foot-tall replica will be installed on Ellis Island, across from the original statue, for the first five days of July. This poignant placement evokes the historical significance of Ellis Island as a gateway for millions of immigrants seeking a new life in America.
A Gift of Goodwill
French officials hope that Americans will view the replica as a gesture of goodwill, ushering in a new era of amicable relations between the two countries. The statue’s arrival coincides with the 77th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in World War II that marked the beginning of the end of Nazi occupation in Western Europe.
A Replica with Historical Significance
This replica is one of over 100 scattered around the world. It was cast in 2009 from a 3-D scan of a model of the original plaster prototype created by sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi. The original 151-foot-tall monument was conceived by French historian Édouard de Laboulaye in 1865, after the end of the American Civil War. Notably, the statue’s broken chains and shackles symbolize the abolition of slavery, not the arrival of immigrants as commonly believed.
A Testament to Franco-American Cooperation
The original Statue of Liberty was a joint effort between France and the United States. The French built and funded the statue itself, while the Americans raised the funds for the pedestal. This collaboration marked “America’s first major crowdfunding project,” highlighting the power of collective action.
The Statue’s Enduring Legacy
Since its inauguration in 1886, the Statue of Liberty has become an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy. Its copper shell, thinner than two stacked pennies, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of its creators.
A Journey of Friendship
The replica’s journey from France to the United States retraces the steps of the original monument. It is a reminder of the deep-rooted ties between the two nations and a symbol of their continued friendship and cooperation.