700
Constitution Ave
Washington 20408
202/501-5500
See some of the documents
that forged a nation. The National Archives is home to the
Declaration of Independence, Constitution and the Bill of Rights
to name a few.
The National Archives is a
fascinating collection of the documents that have formed the
nation. Documents that have only been described in history books
are brought to life when seen personally, so adolescents and
adults will appreciate the exhibits more than children. Daily
tours are available weekdays at 10:15 AM and 1:15 PM, but
special in-depth tours can be arranged.
Some of the documents on
display are the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution,
the Louisiana Purchase complete with Napoleon Bonaparte’s
signature and the Bill of Rights. Some of the display cases are
almost as interesting as what they contain because of the
preservation and security protocols involved. For example, the
Constitution is housed in a bulletproof case that is illuminated
with green light and then filled with helium gas. Obviously,
flash photography is strictly prohibited.
The National Archives’
exhibits include more than just documents. It has the rifle used
by lee Harvey Oswald to assassinate President Kennedy and
numerous photos chronicling moments in American history.
The average stay in the
archives is about 45 minutes, but can easily be longer because
the Archives is a great place to cool off and rest from the
summer heat. There are plenty of seats and the building itself
designed by John Russell Pope is beautiful.
The National Archives is a popular spot with adults because
of the historical documents on display. Most
kids won't appreciate the significance of the displays, so
a quick trip is probably in order if you're toting tots.
Many people go to the
National Archives in order to trace their family history. The
genealogical facilities here are probably the best in the
country.
NATIONAL
ARCHIVES
ATTRACTIONS
