Design and Construction

The Reflecting Pool was designed by architect Henry Bacon as part of the Lincoln Memorial complex and the broader 1901 McMillan Plan for the National Mall, which envisioned a grand axial layout connecting key monuments. Construction began in 1919 and was completed in 1923, shortly after the Lincoln Memorial’s dedication in 1922 The pool measures approximately 2,030 feet long and 167 feet wide, with a depth ranging from 18 inches at the edges to 30 inches in the center, holding roughly 6.75 million gallons of water Its long, narrow rectangular form was inspired by classical sacred pools, creating a reflective surface that mirrors the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the surrounding landscape 

Structural Challenges

The pool was originally built on marshland supplemented with dredged material from the Potomac River, without a proper underlying support structure. Over decades, the heavy structure gradually sank into the soft ground, leading to leaks and water loss of up to 500,000 gallons per week by the 1980s. Temporary fixes, such as pouring concrete into the bottom, were insufficient, and the pool’s structural integrity continued to deteriorate.

Restoration and Modernization

A major restoration project began in November 2010 and lasted 18 months, costing over $30 million  The reconstruction involved draining the pool, removing most of the original structure, and installing over 2,100 timber pilings sunk into the ground to stabilize the basin  The water system was modernized to circulate water from the Tidal Basin, replacing the previous potable water supply, and paved walking paths were added to prevent erosion The restoration preserved the pool’s reflective quality while ensuring long-term structural stability.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Reflecting Pool has been the site of numerous historic events. Most notably, it framed Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March on Washington, hosting over 250,000 people. It has also been central to presidential inaugurations, civil rights demonstrations, memorial services, and public celebrations, including the 2009 Obama inauguration. Its reflective surface not only enhances the visual impact of the Lincoln Memorial but also serves as a symbolic mirror of American ideals, continuity, and civic engagement

Legacy

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool remains a vital ceremonial and aesthetic feature of the National Mall, blending classical design with democratic symbolism. Its history reflects both the engineering challenges of building on marshland and the cultural importance of public spaces in American history, making it a landmark of both architectural and social significance

Sources: daveslocker.net, wiki, history.com, image from mallhistory.com

Mon, Jun 23, 11:00 AM PDT to Wed, Jun 24, 11:00 PM PDT

What

Hot conditions with high temperatures between 85 to 95 are expected and low temperatures between 55 and 65. This will pose a moderate risk of heat-related illness.

Where

Eastern Kitsap County, City of Seattle, Downtown Everett / Marysville Area, Eastside, Foothills and Valleys of Central King County, Foothills and Valleys of Pierce and Southern King Counties, Foothills and Valleys of Snohomish and Northern King Counties, Lowlands of Pierce and Southern King Counties, and Shoreline / Lynnwood / South Everett Area.

When

Until 11 PM PDT Wednesday.

Impacts

Heat will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses for those who are sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling or adequate hydration.

Additional Details

Temperatures will peak on Tuesday in the upper 80s to low 90s, but remain in the upper 80s on Wednesday.

Summary

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1. For sheltering information and other human services in your area, dial 2 1 1 during business hours or visit wa211.org anytime.

Issued By

NWS Seattle WA