Go behind the walls of the Rotunda into the “stacks and vaults” of the National Archives Museum. Encounter fascinating original records, including Abraham Lincoln’s telegrams to his generals and audio recordings from the Oval Office. See the original signed documents known collectively as The Charters of Freedom: The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
The Declaration of Independence expresses the ideals on which the United States was founded. Visitors will view the original document, written in 1776, and consider its extraordinary story while learning how it is maintained in the most exacting archival conditions possible.
See all four pages of the original Constitution and learn how the parchment document was created, how it was made and how it is preserved.
The Bill of Rights protects freedom of speech, press, religion and assembly among others. But what does it say, exactly? How did it come to pass, and how was it made?
This one hour tour with a private docent offers visitors an opportunity to encounter our most treasured documents and records, and encourages participants to refresh their memories of the people and events that preceded us all.
General Information
- Meet your Smithsonian Associates Rep by the Information Desk inside the Constitution Ave and 7th Street entrance, no later than listed start time.
- While there is metered street parking and several parking lots and garages near the museum, space is limited, your best bet is using METRO.