2023: Washington D.C. – FDR Memorial

Our next stop on our Washington, D.C., outdoor tour was the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, a stunning and immersive tribute to the 32nd president of the United States. Unlike traditional monuments, the FDR Memorial unfolds as a series of outdoor rooms, each representing a different chapter of his presidency—from the Great Depression to World War II. The space is brought to life through powerful bronze sculptures, cascading waterfalls, and engraved quotes that highlight FDR’s resilience, leadership, and dedication to social justice. One of the most unique features is the inclusion of Eleanor Roosevelt, making her the only First Lady honored in a presidential memorial. Set along the serene Tidal Basin, this memorial is a must-see, offering a reflective journey through one of the most transformative periods in American history.
Inspired by this visit, I created a scrapbook spread that captures the essence of the FDR Memorial’s design and symbolism. To echo the memorial’s distinct stonework, I used Cricut Design Space to craft the layout and cut the elements with my Cricut Maker. One of my favorite details is the seated image of FDR and his signature, which I had my Cricut Maker draw, adding a striking focal point to the page. On the left side, I incorporated a pile of stone squares for photo matting, mimicking the rugged stone structures found throughout the memorial. For the title, I opted for a cut-through design, allowing the background matting to peek through the letters, reinforcing the monument’s bold and structured aesthetic.
A special touch I included was a shiny dime with the head side up, a nod to FDR’s lasting impact—his image has been featured on the ten-cent piece since 1946, a tribute to his role in the March of Dimes campaign. To balance the composition, I added a torn-edge border on the right side, using the same cardstock as the left-side matting for a cohesive look. The background features a subtle American flag pattern with stars, emphasizing the patriotic significance of this historic site.
This scrapbook page was such a rewarding project, blending history, design, and personal creativity to commemorate our visit to the FDR Memorial. If you ever find yourself in Washington, D.C., I highly recommend stopping by this incredible site—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Have you ever scrapbooked a historical landmark? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your creative approach!
To watch the creation of this spread click on the video below:
Categories: 2023, Memorials, Presidential Sites