National Museum of American History, History museum in National Mall, Washington, United States
The National Museum of American History is a history museum on the National Mall in Washington that displays three million objects across three floors focusing on science, technology, and everyday life. The 1960s building houses galleries that span from the Early Republic to the present, with exhibitions on the presidency, the military, entertainment, and social movements.
The museum opened in 1964 as the Museum of History and Technology in a new building, reflecting growing interest in science and everyday culture. The name changed in 1980 to clarify the focus on American narratives and identity.
The Fort McHenry flag from the War of 1812 hangs in a specially designed chamber with controlled lighting to protect the historic fabric. Visitors can view the hand-sewn stars and stripes up close while an interactive display explains the banner's story during the British bombardment.
Access is through Federal Triangle or Smithsonian metro stations, both a short walk from the entrance. The museum is open Friday to Tuesday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, with galleries typically less crowded in the early afternoon.
Julia Child's fully equipped kitchen was removed from her Cambridge home in 2001 and reassembled at the museum, complete with her pots, pans, and handwritten recipe cards. Visitors can see where the television chef prepared her legendary French dishes, from the copper sauté pans to the well-used wooden spoons.
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