The Statue of Liberty

Presented by Grammar School, Grades 3-4

Most of us have seen a picture of the Statue of Liberty. She is a big robed statue holding a torch, standing on an island in New York!

The Statue of Liberty arrived in America on June 17, 1885. It came in 350 pieces, packed in 214 crates! She holds a torch in her right hand, and a tablet in her left that says "July 4, 1776." This is the day the U.S. declared independence. There’s also a broken chain under her foot, showing the end of slavery in America.

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States. It was a symbol of friendship and was dedicated on October 28, 1886.

The idea began after the Civil War. A French man named Édouard René de Laboulaye. He wanted to celebrate the end of slavery and the victory of freedom in the U.S. He also hoped the statue would inspire freedom and democracy in France.

The statue also honors the friendship between France and the U.S. It celebrates American liberty and stands for freedom and hope for people coming to America.

After it was built, the statue became a symbol of welcome to immigrants coming by sea. People saw this as a sign of hope and a new beginning.

The statue was designed by a French sculptor named Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. The inside was built by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer who made the Eiffel Tower. The design was inspired by Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty.

By Ms. Lindsey Nunez

Grammar School Teacher

Following this historical thought, the Middle and Grammar School choir sang the hymn "Nearer My God to Thee."

We were also delighted to hear from three of our Primary School students, who recited "Christopher Columbus" by Laurie Stephens.

Finally, senior Kate Boynton performed a Bach Sarabande on cello.

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This historical thought was delivered by our Grammar School students at devotional on 10/09/2025. Each week one class leads the student body in prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, scripture recitation, a meditation, and an historical thought. Belmont family and friends are welcome, Thursdays 8:30-9:05 am.

Belmont is an independent K-12 school in the classical, Christian tradition. In partnership with parents, we invest in students — helping them acquire an education of the highest quality, find joy in life, and become influences for good in the world. If you are interested in receiving updates about Belmont, please subscribe to Exulto here by inserting your email.

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