Above the colonnade , inscribed on the frieze , are the names of the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln 's death and the dates in which they entered the Union . Their names are separated by double wreath medallions in bas-relief . The cornice is composed of a carved scroll regularly interspersed with projecting lions ' heads and ornamented with palmetto cresting along the upper edge . Above this on the attic frieze are inscribed the names of the 48 states present at the time of the Memorial 's dedication . A bit higher is a garland joined by ribbons and palm leaves , supported by the wings of eagles . All ornamentation on the friezes and cornices was done by Ernest C. Bairstow
Lincoln 's death
Assassination of Abraham Lincoln
Lincoln Memorial