Description:                                

See some of the documents that forged a nation. The National Archives is home to the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.




The National Archives offers a fascinating collection of documents that have only been described in history books, yet here are brought to life while on display. Naturally, students and adults will appreciate the exhibits more than children. Daily tours are available weekdays at 10:15am and 1:15pm, but special in-depth tours can also be arranged.


Other documents on display include the Louisiana Purchase, complete with Napoleon Bonaparte’s signature. Some of the display cases here are almost as interesting as what’s on display, what with the preservation and security protocols involved. For example, the Constitution is housed in a bulletproof case that is illuminated with green light and then filled with helium gas. Obviously, flash photography is strictly prohibited.


The exhibits at the National Archives include more than just documents, however. It has the rifle used by Lee Harvey Oswald to assassinate President Kennedy, as well as numerous photos chronicling significant moments in American history.


Currently on display in the "American Originals" exhibition are several documents of interest. Highlights include the Lee Resolution, proposing independence to the Continental Congress, and President Washington"s nominations for the first Supreme Court. Also of interest are the documents from the 1841 Amistad Supreme Court case, inspiration for the Steven Spielberg movie, "Amistad".


The average stay in the archives is about 45 minutes. There are plenty of seats and the building itself, designed by John Russell Pope, is beautiful.


NOTICE: The Rotunda will temporarily close during the renovation on July 5, 2001 and reopen in the Summer of 2003. The Rotunda is where the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are on display.

The National Archives Building is being renovated. The research rooms will remain open during the renovation. Researchers will be able to conduct their work and the normal research hours will continue. However, renovation activity may sometimes require minor adjustment to the research hours. Call to check hours.

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