Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Opens to the Public

A hidden part of history under the Lincoln Memorial is now open for public exploration. The U.S. Department of the Interior has released a video showing new perspectives on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Visitors can now explore the Lincoln Memorial Undercroft, a 15,000-square-foot space beneath the monument, free of charge with advance reservations.

For a century, this vast chamber remained unused, supported by 122 concrete pillars resembling a ‘two-story shopping mall.’ This ambitious project, funded by $26 million in federal support and $48 million from the National Park Foundation, began construction in 2023. As Julie Moore, Vice President of Communications with the Trust for the National Mall, stated, the endeavor has taken a decade to reach completion.

A noteworthy feature of the museum is the glass-encased exhibit area situated under the statue of Abraham Lincoln. The museum offers interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and a bookstore. Among the treasures on view are original copies of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment, both bearing Lincoln’s signature.

The museum also provides insights into the memorial’s construction history, showcasing historical tools and authentic graffiti from workers in the 1920s. Besides its foundational aspects, Moore points out the undercroft’s role in telling the story of the memorial’s evolution into a significant civic platform.

Exhibits highlight the memorial’s importance in civil rights history, marking events like Marian Anderson’s 1939 concert and the March on Washington. A striking portrait of Abraham Lincoln made from pennies is also among the highlights.

Advance reservations are available through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Guests can book up to 30 days ahead or opt for walk-up tickets on a first-come, first-served basis at 8:45 a.m. local time at the Korean War Veterans Memorial kiosk.