On social media, many viewers were baffled after discovering that the top of the Statue of Liberty had been closed for over 100 years.
The statue of liberty’s torch has been closed for over 100 years
Many may not know that the Statue of Liberty’s torch was once open to visitors.
France built the famous statue and shipped it to New York in June 1885.
It has remained there ever since.
Created by Edouard de Laboulaye, the statue was a gift from France. It honored America’s centennial of independence and symbolized friendship between the two nations.
Visitors can see the city from the statue’s crown
Today, visitors can book tickets to explore the statue and enjoy stunning views of New York City.
Long ago, people could climb up to the torch for an even better panoramic view.
However, the torch has been closed to the public since 1916. Only National Park Service staff access it for maintenance.
Why the torch was closed in 1916
The ‘Black Tom’ explosion on July 30, 1916, caused officials to shut down the torch.
The explosion occurred on Black Tom Island in New York Harbor. German agents carried it out, damaging the statue’s arm and torch.
Since then, the fragile structure has remained off-limits to the public.
While, many people have never seen the view from the torch. Fortunately, the National Park Service has installed cameras there.
Through the EarthCam website, people can watch live streams. Additionally, they can see views from the torch, crown, harbor, Ellis Island, and the statue itself.
Public reactions to the rare view
On social media, the unusual appearance of the top of the Statue of Liberty baffled many viewers, as it had been closed for over 100 years.
Meanwhile, some viewers expressed disappointment that officials have still not reopened the torch.
One person said: Wow…first time I’m seeing from this view.
A second wrote: Fascinating history for real.
While a third commented: Wow! It’s fantastic!
Another added: I never knew they had a balcony up there. Must be a beautiful view from up there!
Someone else said: Why won’t they reopen it?
Nevertheless, there are currently no plans to reopen the torch to the public