It was agreed that the United States would provide the pedestal while France would be responsible for the statue and its assembly upon arrival to New York harbor.  Architect Richard M. Hunt designed both the foundation and the pedestal.   The pedestal became a symbol in itself for the American obligation to give something to match the French gift but the funding of the project was a painful and controversial process.  Congress refused to help, and American millionaires were not co-operating with the cause.  It was not until Joseph Pulitzer, Hungarian immigrant and publisher, utilized his power to influence the citizens that the funds were actually raised.
    Theatrical events, auctions and art exhibitions were organized to obtain the money needed for Hunt's project.  After many struggles and 120,000 individual contributions, the goal was reached.  Construction was finally completed in April of 1886.