3-052-575 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Removal of another obelisk from Alexandria, for transport to New York, 1880. 'Obelisk erect, with lowering-gear attached. At the time that "Cleopatra's Needle" was brought from Egypt to the banks of the Thames, the companion obelisk remained at Alexandria, where it had been 2000 years. It has since been applied for by the United States Government for the purpose of being erected in Central Park, New York. Though at first refused by the Egyptian Government, the U.S. Consul-General persevered until his efforts met with success. The next thing was to transport the huge obelisk; and Mr. Vanderbilt, a prominent American citizen, offered to devote £15,000 to the purpose...last year Commander Gorringe, of the U.S. Navy, commenced operations. [Our] Illustrations show the methods adopted for lowering and removing the huge monolith. These have occupied nearly five months. On March 31 the launch of the raft containing the obelisk was completed. This work alone had extended over thirteen days. The only thing now remaining to be effected is to ship the massive relic of Thotmes on board the steamer which has been purchased for the purpose, and send it to the New World. We are indebted to Mr. Charles Royle, of Alexandria, for the sketches we have engraved'. From "Illustrated London News", 1880.