A Glimpse into History: The Washington Monument's Unique Apex
June 4th, 2025
Our focus at Steel Services is on providing high-quality steel for various modern applications, and we find it fascinating to look back at moments in history when metals played pivotal roles. The Washington Monument, a towering symbol of American resilience and ingenuity, holds a remarkable secret at its very top: an aluminum capstone.
Completed in 1884, the construction of this iconic obelisk faced numerous challenges, including funding shortfalls and the upheaval of the Civil War. Yet, it ultimately stood tall, crowned with a material that, at the time, was considered more precious than silver: aluminum. So precious, in fact, Napoleon III used aluminum tableware for his distinguished guests to flaunt his wealth.
The responsibility of crafting this unique apex fell to Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Lincoln Casey, who entrusted the task to William Frishmuth. Frishmuth, a Philadelphia metallurgist, successfully cast what was then the largest piece of aluminum in the world, measuring 100 ounces and 8 inches tall. He charged a shocking $225 for it, more than double the price originally agreed upon.
Before its ascent to the monument's pinnacle, Frishmuth showcased the gleaming tip in the prestigious windows of Tiffany's in New York City, highlighting its rarity and value. It wasn’t long before Washington demanded the tip be delivered without further delay.
On December 6, 1884, the aluminum capstone was ceremoniously placed, marking the completion of a truly monumental endeavor. Its presence atop the Washington Monument was a testament to the advancements in metallurgy of the era. Decades later, during World War II, there was a brief discussion about removing it for a scrap metal drive, but thankfully, the aluminum tip was preserved.
To this day, the aluminum capstone remains firmly in place, a testament to the enduring nature of expertly crafted materials and a unique piece of American history. It reminds us that every structure, regardless of its primary material, can hold fascinating stories of innovation and the evolving use of resources throughout time.
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