The African American Civil War Museum at 1925 Vermont Ave NW in Washington, DC, tells the story of Black soldiers through the broader history of African American life, from slavery to the Civil Rights era and beyond. Exhibits draw on artifacts, documents, photographs and other historical materials, with a focus on the United States Colored Troops. Allow plenty of time to read the displays; interactive lessons with actors playing soldiers can help bring their wartime experiences into focus. The adjacent memorial honors those who served.
The story of the United States Colored Troops
The museum focuses on the African American soldiers who served the Union during the Civil War, a contribution that received little attention in much of the country’s historical record. Its mission is to tell their stories and preserve the history of the United States Colored Troops.
More than 200,000 African American soldiers and sailors served in the U.S. Army and Navy during the war. The museum connects their service to the fight against slavery and the preservation of the Union, while placing the Civil War within a longer history of African American life.
What to see inside
Exhibits use artifacts, documents, photographs, newspaper articles, uniform replicas and other historical material. The story extends beyond the Civil War, reaching back to slavery and forward to the Civil Rights era and later history. Expect to spend time reading: the displays contain substantial written information.
Interactive lessons, sometimes led by actors portraying soldiers, offer another way to learn about the lives of African American troops. These activities can be particularly useful for families and school groups. Scavenger hunts for children have also been part of the museum experience.
The memorial and Wall of Honor
The African American Civil War Memorial stands beside the museum. Its Wall of Honor records the names of 209,145 members of the United States Colored Troops who served during the war. The memorial provides an outdoor counterpart to the museum’s exhibits and commemorates the service of Black soldiers and sailors.
The museum is in the U Street area, near a corridor historically known as Black Broadway. Visitors planning to see both the exhibits and memorial should leave room in their schedule for the time needed to read and reflect.
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Where is the African American Civil War Museum?
It is at 1925 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC, beside the African American Civil War Memorial.
What can you see at the museum?
Exhibits cover the history of African American soldiers, especially the United States Colored Troops, using artifacts, documents, photographs and uniform replicas.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Plan for several hours, or longer if you want to work through the extensive displays. The museum’s material can fill a full day.
Can children take part in activities?
Interactive lessons with actors portraying soldiers and children’s scavenger hunts have been offered. Outdoor activities at the memorial are better suited to warmer weather.
