Revisiting America’s History: The National Civil War Museum

Here, records and artifacts provide the authenticity and voice of Union and Confederate soldiers.

The National Civil War Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate, is located in Pennsylvania’s capital Harrisburg. Courtesy of The National Civil War Museum

Summer’s here, and for most families, it’s the time of the year to head to the beach or to the theme parks. Should you happen to be near a chocolate-themed amusement park somewhere in Pennsylvania and you see that the chocolate bar you are holding in your hand is fast melting, then it’s probably time to beat a hasty retreat into the cool, air-conditioned rooms of the National Civil War Museum, located just 13 miles away.

Founded in 2001 and located within Harrisburg’s Reservoir Park, the 66,000-square-foot National Civil War Museum has exhibit rooms, a mini-theater, a lecture gallery, a ballroom, and, of course, a gift shop.