Welcome to the month of March, a month dedicated to celebrating the significant contributions and achievements of women throughout history. Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the remarkable accomplishments of women who have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for generations to come. From scientists and activists to artists and politicians, women have made immeasurable contributions to society, often overcoming obstacles along the way. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the history of Women’s History Month, its significance, and the incredible women who have shaped the world we live in today and how you can honor and celebrate them in the nation’s capital. Washington, DC has various monuments, memorials, and landmarks dedicated to impactful women who contributed to significant change and historical moments for women in the United States. Join us as we honor and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women throughout history and make sure to plan your trip to DC to see all of these important landmarks for yourself.
Celebrate Women’s History This Month in DC
Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial
The Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial, located along the Tidal Basin in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial in Washington D.C., is a beautiful and powerful tribute to one of the most influential and inspiring women in American history. The memorial features Eleanor Roosevelt standing in front of a symbol of the United Nations. Surrounding the statue are several of her most notable quotes, along with a variety of other elements that reflect her life and legacy. From her tireless work as an advocate for human rights and social justice to her groundbreaking efforts in the areas of education, women’s rights, and more, the Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial is a fitting tribute to a woman whose impact continues to be felt around the world to this day. Read more about the Eleanor Roosevelt Memorial here and learn more about other memorials around the National Mall on one of our tours here.
Vietnam Women’s Memorial
The Vietnam Women’s Memorial, located in Washington D.C., is a poignant and powerful tribute to women who served in the Vietnam War. The centerpiece of the memorial is a stunning bronze statue depicting three women: a nurse tending to a wounded soldier, a standing woman looking up in concern, and a kneeling woman holding a letter from home. The names of women who died in Vietnam are included on the list of over 58,000 names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The Vietnam Women’s Memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by women during the Vietnam War and honors their bravery and dedication in the face of unimaginable challenges. The Vietnam Women’s Memorial is located north of the Reflecting Pool. Learn more here.
Joan of Arc Memorial
Joan of Arc is one of the most iconic figures in women’s history, renowned for her bravery, leadership, and unwavering dedication to her cause. She rose to prominence as a military leader during the Hundred Years’ War. Her story has inspired countless generations of women, serving as a symbol of the power of determination, faith, and resilience in the face of adversity. Located in Meridian Hill Park, the Joan of Arc Statue is the only equestrian statue of a woman in Washington, DC. It is a striking and unique monument that pays tribute to this legendary French heroine who led her country’s forces to victory during the Hundred Years’ War. Upon her capture and trial at the hands of the English, she was burned at the stake, leading the Catholic church to recognize her as a martyr in 1456. The memorial features a bronze statue of Joan of Arc dressed in full armor riding a horse. The statue was a gift from the Society of French Women in Exile in New York. The Joan of Arc Memorial is a testament to the power of courage, conviction, and leadership, and it stands as a reminder of the indelible mark that Joan of Arc left on history. Read more about the memorial here.
Daughters of the American Revolution Founders Memorial
The Daughters of the American Revolution Founders Memorial, located in Washington D.C., is a beautiful and inspiring tribute to the women who founded the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), one of the largest and most influential women’s organizations in the United States. Over the years, the DAR has been involved in a wide range of philanthropic and educational initiatives, including the preservation of historic sites and artifacts, the promotion of literacy and education, and the provision of support to military veterans and their families. The Founders Memorial is a testament to the vision, leadership, and dedication of these remarkable women, who helped to shape the course of American history and continue to inspire generations of women today. Learn more about the memorial here.
Rosa Parks Tour at The Mansion on O & O Street Museum
Rosa Parks was a civil rights activist best known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama bus to a white passenger, sparking a wave of protests and civil disobedience that would ultimately lead to the desegregation of public transportation in the city. Parks became a symbol of resistance and courage in the struggle for civil rights, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of activists and advocates for social justice. The Mansion on O & O Street Museum in Washington, DC is a unique and interactive museum featuring a special room dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of civil rights activist Rosa Parks with exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about her life and work. The museum also offers guided tours that explore Parks’ contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Learn more about the Mansion on O & O Street Museum here and reserve a spot for the Mrs. Rosa Parks Tour here.
Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
The Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument, located in Washington D.C., is a historic site dedicated to the women’s suffrage movement and the fight for women’s equality. Home to the National Woman’s Party for more than 90 years, this was the epicenter of the struggle for women’s rights. From this house in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, Alice Paul and the NWP developed innovative strategies and tactics to advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment and equality for women. President Barack Obama designated the national monument on April 12, 2016. The monument houses a museum dedicated to the history of the women’s suffrage movement, as well as a variety of exhibits and artifacts highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the United States. The Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument is a powerful reminder of the long and difficult fight for women’s rights and serves as an inspiration to all those who continue to work towards a more just and equitable society. The national monument is currently closed for renovations, but we encourage you to keep an eye out for alerts on the NPS page dedicated to the monument in order to plan your trip.
Nuns of the Battlefield Memorial
The Nuns of the Battlefield Memorial, located in Washington D.C., is a beautiful and moving tribute to the nuns who served as nurses during the American Civil War. The monument is set atop a pedestal that bears the inscription, “To the memory and in honor of the various orders of sisters who gave their services as nurses on battlefields and in hospitals during the Civil War.” The winged figures on the sides of the memorial represent patriotism and peace. The Nuns of the Battlefield Memorial is a testament to the courage, compassion, and selflessness of these remarkable women, who risked their lives to care for others during one of the darkest chapters in American history. Learn more about the Nuns of the Battlefield Memorial here.