Most People Don’t Know There’s A Little Statue of Liberty In Washington

Seattle's Alki Beach is a popular place for locals (and tourists who can find it) to spend their summer days. But if you've never been, you're probably not aware that there's a small Statue of Liberty replica sitting by the water. Unlike the original statue, this one is only 6 feet tall. But to Seattle, it's pretty significant.

The original name of this settlement was "New York Alki." The word "Alki" means "by and by" in Chinook Jargon.

This area is known as the Birthplace of Seattle. When the Denny party landed here in 1851, Chief Seattle and his tribe greeted them and helped them build their cabin to stave off the winter cold. The "New York" part of the name didn't stick when Alki didn't grow to be a booming metropolis, but the Alki part did.

The statue was a gift from Reginald H. Parsons and the Seattle Council of the Boy Scouts of America in 1952.

The statue pays homage to Alki's original name.

The statue has become a symbol of liberty and courage in the community.

It's a local gathering place, especially in the summertime, when salsa dancing lessons are held there.

The Statue of Liberty became a place to go for comfort after the September 11 attacks.

To this day, people regularly leave encouraging notes by the statue, and vigils are held there on the 9/11 anniversary.

If you're ever on Alki Beach, stop by and check out this beautiful statue. It's the next best thing to Lady Liberty herself.