This just in from Gadling — the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. will close for renovations starting in early September 2006, and won’t reopen for about two years.
A terrific choice for anyone but particularly for families, it houses Americana of every description, including the ruby slippers from the “Wizard of Oz,” the original Star-Spangled Banner, Cesar Chavez’s union jacket, Richard Petty’s 200th victory car, gowns worn by First Ladies at inaugurations, early personal computers, a jar of leeches (in the Medical section,) a pencil drawing of “Steamboat Willie” (later Mickey Mouse)….just a wonderful collection.
There will probably be mini-exhibits around the Mall while restoration is ongoing, but it can’t match the bulging contents of the original Museum.
See it while it’s open if you can.
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Sheila:
Fun site!
Although the Smithsonian’s American History museum is closed for a while; in July ’06, the Reynolds Center which houses the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum reopened after extensive renovations.
For the kids, the museum has portraits of all the Presidents so their parents may like the idea of them learning a bit of U.S. history while ton vacation. Plus there is some fun (and funny) folk art to see, not to mention the famous and iconic painting American Gothic.
Cheers!
Thanks very much for the updated info, Jon. Your blog is off to a great start!
Sheila
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