The Great American Songbook, a collection of jazz standards and show tunes created by talented songwriters in early 20th century New York, provided solace and joy during difficult times in U.S. history.
Museum of Artifacts That Made America
From the first video games to the cotton gin; how do the inventions of the past impact the world around us today?
Nixon’s Tape Recorder
Installed in selected rooms at the White House on the President’s orders, this is the story of how a state-of-the-art recording system ultimately led to Richard Nixon’s downfall.
The History of the Rainbow Flag
The rainbow flag is one of the most recognisable symbols in the world, synonymous with tolerance and LGBTQ+ rights. But how was it created?
Hawaiian Leis and the Selma to Montgomery March
The Selma to Montgomery March was one of the most important actions of the Civil Rights Movement – but what were the connections between Black Americans and Hawaiians and why did the leaders wear Hawaiian necklaces?
Madeleine Albright’s Brooches
The U.S.’s first female Secretary of State used her collection of brooches to get her point across when meeting with foreign leaders, a practice that became known as “Pin Diplomacy.”
Lunch Counter Stools
In 1960, four Black students staged a sit-in in Greensboro, North Carolina to protest against racial segregation in the United States. The stools they sat on are the most visited artifacts at the International Civil Rights Center and Museum.
The Cannon: How The Cannon Revolutionised The Way Battles Were Fought
Long range, high calibre weapons – the cannon helped propel the Union to victory. But how did the technological advances that took place during the Civil War change the game?
Civil War Medical Kits
They empowered US Army medics to save countless lives – but how did the humble medical kit evolve with the American Civil War?
The Invention of the Camera
The invention of the camera changed how many Americans saw the Civil War – and exposed millions to the horrors of conflict for the very first time.
How the Telegraph Changed America
Military leaders didn’t just rely on carrier pigeons and messengers on horseback to share information during the American Civil War – they texted each other using telegrams!