In 1889 it was built out of wood as a temporary arch to commemorate the centennial
of George Washington’s inauguration as President. The design by Stamford White was so successful that people insisted on it being recreated in marble.The completed arch, 73 feet 6 inches high and 47 feet 9 inches at its opening, exceeded its $150,000 budget by $28,000. It was dedicated on April 30,1895.