Disney Celebrates America: David Muir’s Ascent to the Statue of Liberty’s Torch
Tyunews.com – As part of ABC News’ 250th-anniversary tribute to the United States, anchor David Muir embarked on an iconic journey by scaling the Statue of Liberty’s right arm to reach its torch, situated more than 300 feet above ground. This historic climb marked the launch of a special programming block titled “Disney Celebrates America,” spanning 24 hours across multiple platforms including ABC, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, National Geographic, FX, Freeform, and ABC News Live.
The Statue’s Legacy
Originally gifted to the U.S. by France in 1886, the Statue of Liberty has stood as a symbol of hope for over 12 million immigrants who arrived through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954. The monument’s design, conceived by French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi, was intentional—ensuring newcomers would immediately glimpse Lady Liberty’s face upon docking in New York Harbor. Though Bartholdi couldn’t have anticipated the scale of future immigration, his vision remains etched in the statue’s enduring presence.
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes
During his climb, Muir encountered Matt Housch, a National Park Service historian, who shared insights into the statue’s construction. “The copper is so thin, it’s like holding two pennies in your hand, while the exterior bears the green patina,” Housch explained. “Inside, the dark copper reveals rivets holding the pieces together.” The double helical staircase leading to the crown offered a rare view of the statue’s intricate inner workings, underscoring its engineering marvel.
“She’d been up there for 100 years—she’s out in the middle of the ocean,” said Tony Soraci, a worker involved in the 1980s restoration. Soraci, grandson of Italian immigrants, recounted the challenges of preserving the original torch, which was replaced due to severe damage. “It’s impossible to fully imagine what it was like for the immigrants all those years ago,” Muir added, reflecting on the sight that greeted arrivals. “They were the bravest people I can possibly imagine.”
Connecting Past and Present
Before ascending, Muir spoke with Captain Hamilton Clancy, whose family has lived near the statue for generations. Clancy’s grandfather once oversaw Liberty Island, offering a personal link to the monument’s history. The ferry ride to the island provided a poignant backdrop for Muir’s commemorative event, blending historical context with modern media coverage. “Welcome to New York Harbor. You can hear the ferry pulling off. Wow,” Muir said, marveling at the view from the torch. “This is what those immigrants saw when they arrived.”
Though the statue’s torch has been replaced, its symbolic significance endures. The original structure was designed to sway with the wind, a feature that allows it to withstand harsh weather conditions over time. Muir’s visit highlighted the statue’s dual role as both a national icon and a testament to resilience, echoing the spirit of the generations that passed through its shadow.
