The Lincoln Memorial stands as a powerful tribute to one of America’s greatest leaders, drawing millions of visitors each year.

But while most admire its grandeur from above, few know about what lies deep beneath its foundation.

Tucked away in the monument’s undercroft, an unexpected discovery has sparked curiosity among historians.

A mysterious sketch, hidden for decades, is now raising questions about its origins—and whether it has an unlikely connection to one of Hollywood’s earliest stars.



Deep below Lincoln’s statue, a striking figure is etched into the stone—a woman with dark lips, bold eye makeup, and a cigarette resting at the corner of her mouth. Next to the sketch, one word stands out: "Vamp."

Experts believe the image may depict Theda Bara, a silent film star known for her seductive roles in the early 1900s.

At the time of the memorial’s construction, Bara’s “vamp” persona was widely recognized, leading some to speculate that a lovestruck laborer—perhaps a fan of her work—may have created this hidden tribute.

While this theory remains unproven, Mike Litterst, a spokesperson for the National Mall and Memorial Parks, finds the idea compelling.

The timing, style, and cultural context all point to Bara as a likely inspiration for the drawing, adding a surprising Hollywood connection to the historic landmark.


he Theda Bara etching is just one of many markings hidden beneath the Lincoln Memorial. The undercroft is filled with drawings and inscriptions, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century culture and the workers who helped construct the monument.

Among the sketches is a surprisingly precise drawing of Mutt and Jeff, the popular cartoon duo from that era.

Nearby, a figure believed to resemble President Woodrow Wilson—who was in office when the memorial was built—stands etched into the stone.



Scattered throughout the space are various names, phrases, and signatures, possibly left behind by laborers who played a role in the monument’s construction.

Many of these sketches are attributed to a mysterious figure known as "Johnny Bosco." His name appears repeatedly throughout the undercroft, often alongside intricate drawings that suggest a level of artistry beyond simple graffiti.

Some experts believe these weren’t just casual doodles but intentional pieces of art, left behind as a silent imprint of those who built one of America’s most iconic landmarks.

While visitors won’t be able to see these hidden sketches in person, plans are in place to preserve their history.

A new Lincoln Memorial undercroft visitor center, scheduled to open in July 2026, will feature digital reproductions of the artwork.



The facility will also include:

• A museum and exhibit space exploring the memorial’s history
• Expansive views of the undercroft’s towering columns, revealing a rarely seen side of the structure
• An immersive theater experience, offering a deeper look at the monument’s significance

Though the sketches themselves remain out of reach, their discovery adds another layer to the Lincoln Memorial’s story—proving that even the most familiar landmarks can still hold secrets.

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From old inscriptions on buildings to forgotten artwork in unexpected places, history has a way of revealing itself in surprising ways.

Have you ever come across something that made you see a familiar place in a new light?

Join the conversation in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the hidden details that make history even more fascinating.