— Earthquake of August 23, 2011 —

On August 23, 2011, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake occurred 84 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. As the earth shook, the Washington Monument sustained significant damage to many of its marble and granite blocks.

Although the monument remains structurally sound, internal and external stone damage was discovered in many areas. Most occurred in the top fifty feet of the monument, the pyramidion, which suffered cracks to marble panels, tie beams, and rib bearing haunches, as well as displacement of rib stones. Emergency teams waterproofed cracks and removed loose stone for safety.

Close-up of earthquake-damaged stonework and a diagram showing the extent of damaged exterior stone on the east face of the Monument.

Photo captions:

Preparation and Repairs:
To facilitate Washington Monument repairs, a temporary access road and scaffolding in place.

Accessing damage in September 2012

Repairs are expected to be completed in 2014.National Mall and Memorial Parks

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Washington, DC  |  20230  |  District Of Columbia  |  United States of America

Why is the Washington Monument Temporarily Closed?
Washington City Canal on the Tiber Creek
Bulfinch Gate House
German-American Friendship Garden
German-American Friendship Garden
The German-American Friendship Garden
A Monumental Legacy
Boy Scout Memorial
Original Patentees Memorial
Washington: The City

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.