history – What To See In Washington DC

Wilbur Wright and… Washington DC?

MuseumsApril 13, 2024273Views 0Likes 0Comments

When you think of Wilbur Wright, you probably think of Dayton, OH, or Kitty Hawk, NC. But here are three surprising connections between Wilbur, the Smithsonian, and Washington DC. 1) Wilbur wrote a letter to the Smithsonian on May 30th, 1899. The Smithsonian was still a young institution, barely over fifty years old. Yet it…

An Unexpected Gift to You: How One Man’s Gift Blessed the Nation

MuseumsMarch 16, 2024516Views 0Likes 0Comments

On Christmas Day, 1937, an unexpected letter dropped on President Franklin Roosevelt's desk. A written offer to give the country an immense art collection. But not just that… it also offered to build the huge gallery needed to display it. And the plans to accomplish it. Less than 5 years later, the National Gallery of…

Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers: A Curious Tale of Magic, Mystery, and Mishap

MuseumsDecember 8, 2023253Views 0Likes 0Comments

One of the most beloved artifacts in the Smithsonian is Dorothy's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz (1939). Thousands of visitors approach the glass case each year to stare in awe at the bejeweled pumps as they sparkle under the lights. But did you know the shoes aren't a matching pair? Or that other…

Fun Family Visit to Fort Washington

OutdoorsJuly 28, 2023291Views 0Likes 0Comments

Stand on the point of land poking into the Potomac River. A stone and brick fort looms above you. You instantly see what a map or written description of this abandoned fort could only try to explain. Fort Washington's location and design made it a key point of defense along the Potomac for years. It…

Millions of Letters Boosting Morale: Remembering V-Mail 81 Years Later

MuseumsJune 17, 2023272Views 0Likes 0Comments

V-Mail launched 81 years ago this week. When William H. VanZee wrote these two letters to his wife, Laura, the Victory Mail system was a well-oiled machine. It allowed millions of families around the world to stay in touch in spite of their separation. William's letters to his wife, Laura What is V-Mail? V-Mail was a…

Commemorate D-Day at This Military History Event

EventsJune 10, 2023294Views 0Likes 0Comments

This Saturday, the artifacts come out to play. WWII tanks, classic jeeps, and the M29 Weasel make a wonderful hands-on display for you and your kids. Come commemorate D-Day with the American Military Heritage Museum, a short drive west of Washington DC. Enthusiastic volunteers and veterans showcase weapons and gear all day. You're able to…

"Discovery and Revelation" exhibition at American History

“Discovery and Revelation” at American History

MuseumsMarch 21, 2022284Views 0Likes 0Comments

Are science and religion at war?

Cherokee Days at the American Indian Museum

Events, MuseumsApril 12, 2019323Views 0Likes 0Comments

When you meet him, Vyrl Keeter introduces himself as a retired educator but after watching his passion as a Cherokee Nation culture keeper, you'd be right to wonder if he's ever really left education behind. This weekend at the National Museum of the American Indian, you'll find him sitting just off the atrium, the clack…

Visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture

MuseumsSeptember 26, 2016350Views 0Likes 0Comments

"It's like art work on the building!" my 7 year old said as we admired the filigree wrapping the outside of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. With a distinctive style and prominent location on the National Mall, D.C.'s newest museum uniquely stands out. National Museum of African American History and…