Open House: Military Life in Washington

This Veterans Day, join us for a tour of the exhibition Treasures from the Albert H. Small Collection and special access to historical letters, maps and other ephemera on military life in Washington, D.C. These primary documents illuminating local camp life, the District’s military defenses and commemorations of service members will be on display in the Albert H. Small Center for National Capital Area Studies. Get an up-close look at letters from Civil War soldiers stationed in and around Washington, inspect fortification plans drafted in 1871 to protect D.C., and more.

Join us before the program for coffee and pastries starting at 10:30 a.m. Guests will have the opportunity to share the names of veterans they wish to thank for military service on a community installation.

About the Exhibition

The Albert H. Small Gallery explores the history of Washington, D.C., through a selection of maps, letters, prints and artifacts from the museum’s Albert H. Small Washingtoniana Collection. The current display explores the highs and lows of military life in and around D.C. during the Civil War. Learn more about the exhibition

About the Center

The Albert H. Small Center for National Capital Area Studies houses a research collection of maps, illustrative prints, newspapers and ephemera relating to Washington, D.C., history, as well as a non- circulating library. The center is open to walk-in visitors on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. and by appointment. Learn more about the center

How to Participate

This program will take place in person at the museum. To join the program, meet in the lobby at 10:30 a.m. The guided tour will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a visit to the Albert H. Small Center for National Capital Area Studies. Space is limited, so please register in advance.