Trump Administration to Regild Lincoln Memorial Horse Statues

The Trump administration has awarded a $5 million contract to regild four bronze horse statues located near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. [1]. The project, which involves applying a thick layer of 23.75-karat gold leaf to the "Arts of War" and "Arts of Peace" statues, is part of a broader series of renovations occurring across the capital in anticipation of the nation’s 250th birthday celebration this summer [1].

Key takeaways

• The National Park Service awarded the $5 million contract to a Maryland-based gilding studio in mid-April [1].
• The Department of the Interior bypassed competitive bidding for the contract, citing a need to complete the work by July 4 [1].
• The statues, originally installed in 1951, have faced long-standing issues with stone cracks and bronze corrosion [2].
• This project is the first time the statues have been regilded in 50 years [2].

Restoration and Renovation Efforts

The decision to regild the statues is part of a larger initiative by the second Trump administration to renovate historic landmarks throughout Washington, D.C. [1]. According to the Department of the Interior, the project aims to fulfill the president's commitment to revitalize the city [1]. A spokesperson for the department stated that the administration is ensuring "Promises Made are Promises Kept" and that the work is intended to restore the capital to a "grand destination" [1].

The contract was awarded without competition to ensure the work is finished in time for the July 4 holiday [1]. Before the gold leaf is applied, the statues must undergo deep cleaning and structural repairs to address decades of corrosion [2]. While the administration frames these projects as a necessary revitalization, the rapid timeline has drawn some scrutiny regarding the effectiveness of the rushed restoration [2].

Broader Construction and Legal Challenges

The regilding of the horse statues is one of several ambitious construction projects initiated since the president returned to office last year [1]. Other efforts include plans for a 250-foot triumphal arch near the Lincoln Memorial, which has faced a lawsuit from veterans who argue the structure would be disrespectful and obstruct views [1]. Additionally, the administration has undertaken renovations at the White House, including the removal of the historic East Wing to build a ballroom and modifications to the Rose Garden [1].

The administration’s approach to these projects has occasionally led to conflict. For example, a federal judge recently ordered the removal of the president's name from the Kennedy Center, halting plans to close the facility for a complete rebuilding [1]. Despite these challenges, the Department of the Interior maintains that the ongoing renovations to parks and fountains are part of a successful effort to improve the city [1].