The United States’ Most Iconic Mausoleum

The most famous mausoleum in the world is the Taj Mahal, but the most visited mausoleum in the United States is Grant’s Tomb. Built almost twelve years after his death, Grant’s tomb is an iconic New York City landmark commemorating the life and passing of our 18th President and Civil War General, Ulysses S. Grant.

The mausoleum had not been constructed before his death, but the within days of his passing in July 1885, the Grant Monument Association (GMA) was founded with the sole purpose of raising funds to build a national monument and mausoleum in his honor. In 1888, the GMA announced a design competition, inviting both American and European architects to submit plans for a custom mausoleum to memorialize Grant’s achievements. The winning plan was created by John Hemenway Duncan, an American architect who would later design other prominent military-based monuments throughout New York City. Fashioned after the traditional Grecian-Doric style, with a cube-shaped base and dome top, expansive arches, and sweeping staircases, Grant’s Tomb was and still is one of the most ornately crafted mausoleums in the United States.

Finally completed in 1897, Grant’s remains were interred there, and the mausoleum was dedicated on April 27, 1897, on what would have been the general’s 75th birthday. Today, Grant’s Tomb is one of the must-see’s on any tourist list with over 30,000 new visitors each year.

The story of Grant’s Tomb is a great reminder that long-lasting mausoleums take adequate planning and an expert eye for detail. A mausoleum should commemorate your life and its work. To find a customized option that meets your requests, our mausoleum design experts are happy to help. As, the premier provider of custom private mausoleums in the United States, Forever Legacy can help you create a peaceful and beautiful resting place. Give us a call at 1-800-298-4188 to learn more or to click here to request a private consultation.