During our trip to the National Archives, we had enough daylight left to explore another attraction. Mama Nomad suggested that we check out the American History Museum. We exited the National Archives and, in no time, we were at the steps of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
The American History Museum displays the history of the heritage of the United States. This delves into the areas of social, political, cultural, scientific and military history. Mama Nomad had one thing that she “HAD” to see. As soon as we entered the building, we bee lined straight for it. What could it be you ask? The ruby red slippers from The Wizard of Oz of course. They were Dorothy’s original shoes from the film. Mama Nomad saw them, admired them, was satisfied and we moved on.
We meandered throughout the whole building. They had carriages from President Lincoln and President Grant. There was one room filled with the gowns of the current and former first ladies as well as their china plate patterns.
You pass by a lunch counter from F.W. Woolworth that was in Greensboro used during the sit-ins for the civil rights movement.
There are sections where you can walk through war scenes that ranged from the American Revolution through the Vietnam War. This includes a room with the original flag from Fort McHenry that Francis Scott Key saw that inspired him to write the Star Spangled Banner. You will even find a piece of the Twin Towers that fell in 9/11.
It was really interesting walking through the historical heritage of The United States of America. What I found to be so interesting was what was actually contained therein. I had no real expectations going in so it was one place that actually gave me a surprise.
When we left the American History Museum, we realized that we were not far from the Ford Theater, the place where President Abraham Lincoln was shot. So, before we headed back home, we plotted a course and decided to visit it. We couldn’t be that close and not see it. We passed the J Edgar Hoover building, better known as FBI Headquarters, along the way as well as the HQ for the IRS . It wasn’t too far of a trek until we arrived. It was closed and we could not go in. However, we took pause to take in what actually transpired at this location.
I have used the word many times in this post and I guess it is how I would sum up the day, interesting. Safe Travels.
