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African American Civil War Memorial Museum and its collection

African American Civil War Memorial Museum
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The African American Civil War Memorial Museum is a significant landmark in Washington, D.C.'s U Street district. It pays tribute to the 209,145 African-American soldiers, along with about 7,000 white and 2,145 Hispanic soldiers, and approximately 20,000 unsegregated Navy sailors who fought for the Union in the American Civil War. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of their contributions and sacrifices during this pivotal period in American history.

Location and Features of the Memorial

The African American Civil War Memorial Museum is situated at the intersection of Vermont Avenue, 10th Street, and U Street NW in Washington, D.C. The memorial features a 9-foot bronze statue, The Spirit of Freedom, created by Ed Hamilton of Louisville, Kentucky. This statue was commissioned by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities in 1993 and was completed in 1997. The memorial also includes a walking area with curved panel short walls, which are inscribed with the names of the men who served in the war.

Exhibits and the Descendants Registry at the Museum

The museum houses a variety of exhibits, including photographs, newspaper articles, and replicas of period clothing, uniforms, and weaponry from the Civil War. The African American Civil War Memorial Registry at the museum documents the family trees of more than 2,000 descendants of the men who served with the United States Colored Troops. Visitors have the opportunity to search the database to find ancestors and relatives registered in the Descendants Registry.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology War Ethnology

#40 Free museums in Washington D.C. #35 History & Anthropology in Washington D.C. #6 Ethnology museums in Washington D.C. #6 War museums in Washington D.C.

#40 Free museums in Washington D.C. #35 History & Anthropology in Washington D.C. #6 Ethnology museums in Washington D.C. #6 War museums in Washington D.C.
African American Civil War Memorial Museum
1925 Vermont Ave NW
Washington DC

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Visitor information African American Civil War Memorial Museum

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday
10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday
10:00 – 17:00
Thursday
10:00 – 17:00
Friday
10:00 – 17:00
Saturday
10:00 – 17:00
Sunday
10:00 – 17:00

Monday & Holidays: Closed

Admission

AdultsFree
SeniorsFree
StudentsFree

The Museum will be closed on the following holidays:
Independence Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
New Year’s Day

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of African American Civil War Memorial Museum.

Location & Map

1925 Vermont Ave NW, Washington D.C.

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in African American Civil War Memorial Museum have been found.

African American Civil War Memorial Museum Reviews

African American Civil War Memorial Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The African American Civil War Memorial Museum in Washington D.C. offers visitors an important perspective on the Civil War era, focusing on the contributions and experiences of African American soldiers. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) and their role in the Union victory.

    Visitors appreciate the museum's dedication to preserving and sharing this often-overlooked aspect of American history. The exhibits are informative and well-organized, providing a chronological journey through the Civil War period and its aftermath. Many find the personal stories and accounts particularly moving and enlightening.

    The museum's location, adjacent to the African American Civil War Memorial, adds depth to the experience. The memorial statue, "The Spirit of Freedom," and the Wall of Honor listing the names of USCT soldiers, complement the museum's narrative.

    While the museum receives praise for its content and educational value, some visitors note that the space is relatively small and can feel cramped during busy periods. Additionally, a few reviewers mention that some exhibits could benefit from updates or more interactive elements to enhance engagement, especially for younger visitors.

    Despite its compact size, the museum manages to pack in a wealth of information. The staff and volunteers are often highlighted for their knowledge and enthusiasm, providing insightful tours and answering questions with depth and passion.

    Overall, the African American Civil War Memorial Museum offers a valuable educational experience, shedding light on an important but often underrepresented aspect of American history. It's particularly recommended for history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the Civil War era and African American contributions to the Union cause.

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  • Aggregated rating

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