100 Years: Commemoration of the John Ericsson Memorial at the National Mall

Swedish‑born inventor John Ericsson is widely regarded as "one of the greater engineering minds that ever existed." Ericsson revolutionized naval propulsion and was instrumental in the development of the screw propeller. His innovations—most notably his design of the USS Monitor—significantly shaped U.S. naval history and left a lasting mark on maritime innovation.

The John Ericsson Memorial, authorized by the U.S. Congress on August 31, 1916, was sculpted by James Earle Fraser and dedicated on May 29, 1926.

The ceremony will highlight Ericsson’s transatlantic impact and recognize the memorial’s artistic and historical significance, as well as its place within the national heritage of National Mall and Memorial Parks. The program will include brief remarks and a ceremonial wreath‑laying.

This gathering is intended as a moment of reflection and shared remembrance, honoring innovation, public service, and the shared history between Sweden and the United States, as part of the Embassy of Sweden’s observance of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Additional information:

• This is an outdoor event. Please dress accordingly.
• Program length: approximately 45 minutes.
• Space is limited. Please RSVP.

More information about the memorial is available here: https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/john-ericsson-memorial.htm

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Photo #2: Ironclad warship USS Monitor. Artist A. Nordling (1900–1950). Tekniska museet.

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Host or Publisher Embassy of Sweden, Washington DC