#13: FDR Memorial

Outdated websites forced us into a situation where I was aimlessly searching for "The Awakening" at its former location, near Hains Point (I'd like to point out: that's a SENATE website).  After I broke down and told Matt what we were looking for and we determined that it didn't exist (at least where we were), we decided to walk through the FDR Memorial, also on the adventures list.  Based on convenience, we made our way to the George Mason Memorial directly after.

The FDR Memorial is a lived-in memorial.  Bronze statues are life-sized and almost encourage you to take photos next to them.  As we walked through, we saw at least 4 visitors standing in the "bread line" for a photo, and even more people petting the status of the Roosevelt's dog.  The memorial tells a story, breaking FDR's presidency into phases and taking you on a physical trip as you pass through time.  It's also in the shade, which I can't help but think is intentional, as most of these decisions are.  

Water is a big part of the memorial.  During my 8th grade class trip (throwback!) I remember the guide explaining the symbolism behind the water, and a quick trip to Wikipedia broke it down:

"Each of the four 'rooms' representing Roosevelt's respective terms in office contains a waterfall. As one moves from room to room, the waterfalls become larger and more complex, reflecting the increasing complexity of a presidency marked by the vast upheavals of economic depression and world war. Tour guides describe the symbolism of the five main water areas as: 

• A single large drop - The crash of the economy that led to the Great Depression 
• Multiple stairstep drops - The Tennessee Valley Authority dam-building project 
• Chaotic falls at varying angles - World War II 
• A still pool - Roosevelt's death 
• A wide array combining the earlier waterfalls - A retrospective of Roosevelt's presidency"  (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_Delano_Roosevelt_Memorial)

Matt and I went right at sunset, so we were spoiled by few visitors and perfect weather.  It also allowed for some great photos as we walked around the Tidal Basin to the George Mason Memorial, in addition to a visit by a fox.  

We photo-stalked the fox for awhile but I thought this photo was more appropriate

Location: 1850 W Basin Dr. SW (the NW side of the Tidal Basin, in between Independence and Ohio, on the Potomac)
Closet Metro Stop: Arlington Cemetery (blue/yellow) or L'Enfant Plaza (blue/yellow/green/orange) - but both are a hike
Cost: Free