Discovering the Newest Addition to Smithsonian Museums: The Anacostia Community Museum

The Smithsonian Institution, a museum and research complex in Washington D.C., is known for its diverse array of exhibits, collections, and educational programs. With 19 museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, the Smithsonian welcomes millions of visitors annually to explore the nation’s history, culture, and science. And now, there’s a new reason to visit the Smithsonian- the Anacostia Community Museum.

What is the Anacostia Community Museum?

The Anacostia Community Museum is a branch of the Smithsonian Institution that opened in 1967. The museum is located in Southeast D.C., in the neighborhood of Anacostia. It was originally founded to address the social and cultural challenges of the Anacostia community, and has since expanded its mission to showcase the rich history and culture of African Americans in the D.C. area. The museum features a large collection of artifacts, photographs, and other memorabilia that tell the stories of African American life in D.C. and across the United States. Visitors can explore exhibits on a range of topics, from the civil rights movement to the history of jazz music. The Anacostia Community Museum also hosts a variety of educational programs, including lectures, workshops, and special events.

What’s new at the Anacostia Community Museum?

In July 2021, the Anacostia Community Museum opened a new exhibition entitled “A Right to the City”. The exhibit explores the history of urban renewal in Anacostia and other neighborhoods throughout the United States. It focuses on how these renewal projects have shaped our communities, both positively and negatively, and how residents have responded to these changes over time. The exhibit features a range of artifacts, including photographs, artworks, and oral histories. Visitors can also explore interactive exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of the history of urban renewal and its impact on cities across the country. In addition to the new “A Right to the City” exhibit, the Anacostia Community Museum has a rich lineup of ongoing exhibits and programs. Visitors can explore exhibits on African American art, local history, and the African Diaspora. The museum also hosts a number of cultural events and performances throughout the year, including music concerts and dance showcases.

Why should you visit the Anacostia Community Museum?

There are many reasons why a visit to the Anacostia Community Museum is a must for anyone visiting or living in the D.C. area. Here are just a few:

Learn about the rich history of African Americans in D.C.

As one of the country’s oldest African American communities, Anacostia has a rich history that is often overlooked. The Anacostia Community Museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about the many contributions that African Americans have made to D.C. and the country as a whole.

Explore the impact of urban renewal on American cities.

The new “A Right to the City” exhibit is a thought-provoking exploration of how urban renewal has shaped our cities, for better or for worse. It’s a timely and relevant topic that is sure to spark conversations and inspire action.

Enjoy a range of cultural events and programs.

In addition to its exhibits, the Anacostia Community Museum is home to a wide range of cultural events and programs. From music concerts to dance performances, there’s always something exciting happening at the museum.

Plan your visit

The Anacostia Community Museum is located at 1901 Fort Place SE in Washington D.C. It is open daily from 10am-5pm, except for Christmas Day. Admission is free, making it an affordable and accessible destination for all visitors. Summing it up, the newest addition to the Smithsonian museums is the Anacostia Community Museum that provides visitors with an engaging and informative look into the rich history and culture of African Americans in D.C. and beyond. Whether you want to learn about the impact of urban renewal or simply enjoy a cultural event, the Anacostia Community Museum is the perfect destination for anyone interested in exploring the diversity of American life.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Newest Smithsonian Museum

The Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. are among the most well-known and well-loved museums in the United States. The institution comprises 19 museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, and every year millions of visitors from around the world come to explore its vast collections and exhibits. One of the questions people often ask is, “what is the newest Smithsonian museum?” Here are some answers to your most frequently asked questions about the newest Smithsonian museum.

What is the newest Smithsonian museum?

The newest Smithsonian museum is the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which opened to the public in September 2016. The museum is located on the National Mall, near the Washington Monument, and it explores the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the United States. The museum’s collection includes more than 37,000 objects, including art, photographs, documents, and artifacts.

What is the history behind the National Museum of African American History and Culture?

The National Museum of African American History and Culture was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, and its creation was spearheaded by Lonnie G. Bunch III, who served as the museum’s founding director. The museum was designed by the architectural firm of David Adjaye, and its distinctive form is inspired by the Yoruban art of West Africa. The museum’s collection was largely shaped by a team of curators, historians, and scholars, who spent years researching and acquiring objects for the museum’s exhibitions.

What can visitors expect to see at the National Museum of African American History and Culture?

Visitors to the National Museum of African American History and Culture can expect to see a range of exhibits and galleries that explore the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the United States. The museum’s exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including slavery, the Civil War, the civil rights movement, music, sports, and popular culture. The museum also features interactive exhibits, such as the “Making a Way Out of No Way” exhibit, which challenges visitors to consider how they might respond to various challenges and obstacles.

How can I plan a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture?

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a highly popular destination, and timed entry passes are required for all visitors. Visitors can obtain timed entry passes online through the museum’s website, or by calling the museum’s reservation line. Timed entry passes are released on a rolling basis, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and book their passes as early as possible. The museum is open every day except for Christmas Day, and admission is free.

What are some other Smithsonian museums that focus on African American history and culture?

In addition to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, there are several other Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. that focus on African American history and culture. These include the National Museum of American History, which has a robust collection of objects related to African American history, as well as the National Portrait Gallery, which features portraits of important African Americans. The Anacostia Community Museum, which is located in southeast Washington, D.C., also has a strong focus on African American history and culture, and it features exhibitions and programs that are designed to engage and inform visitors of all ages.

How to Find the Newest Smithsonian Museum: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The Smithsonian Institution is known for its world-class museums that are dedicated to science, history, culture, and art. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Smithsonian has been hard at work on a new museum that seeks to honor the contributions and achievements of African Americans. This guide will help you find the newest Smithsonian museum and experience its exhibits, programs, and events.

Step 1: Know the Name of the Museum

The newest Smithsonian museum is called the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003 and opened to the public on September 24, 2016. The NMAAHC is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., next to the Washington Monument.

Step 2: Understand the Mission of the Museum

The NMAAHC is more than just a museum; it is a center of learning and discovery that aims to explore the African American experience in the United States and beyond. Its mission is to help visitors understand and appreciate the rich and complex history and culture of African Americans, from slavery to the civil rights movement to the present day.The museum’s exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including slavery and freedom, segregation and integration, civil rights and social justice, arts and entertainment, sports and activism, and community and family life. The NMAAHC also hosts events, workshops, and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Step 3: Plan Your Visit

The NMAAHC is open seven days a week, except for Christmas Day. Its hours of operation are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. However, timed-entry passes are required for all visitors, including children and infants. Passes can be obtained online, by phone, or in person, up to six months in advance of your visit. There is no admission fee for the NMAAHC.The museum’s website provides detailed information on how to plan your visit, including directions, parking, accessibility, and security measures. Visitors are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled entry time and to bring a valid photo ID for each member of their party.

Step 4: Explore the Exhibitions

The NMAAHC has several floors of exhibitions that are organized thematically and chronologically. Some of the highlights include:- Slavery and Freedom: This exhibition explores the origins and impacts of slavery in the United States, as well as the efforts of enslaved people to resist and escape.- Civil Rights: This exhibition chronicles the struggle for civil rights in the 20th century, focusing on key events, leaders, and movements that brought about significant changes in American society.- Cultural Expressions: This exhibition showcases the creativity and diversity of African American arts and culture, from music and dance to literature and film.- Power of Place: This exhibition examines how African American communities have shaped and been shaped by the places they call home, from urban neighborhoods to rural settlements.- Making a Way Out of No Way: African American Entrepreneurship and Innovation: This exhibition highlights the contributions of African American entrepreneurs and inventors who have created new businesses and technologies that have changed the world.

Step 5: Enjoy the Programs and Events

The NMAAHC offers a wide range of programs and events that complement its exhibitions and engage visitors in meaningful ways. These include:- Film screenings and discussions
– Lecture series and symposia
– Workshops and demonstrations
– Musical performances and dance shows
– Family-friendly activities and games
– Guided tours and gallery talksVisitors are encouraged to check the museum’s online calendar for upcoming events and to sign up for email updates and newsletters to stay informed about the latest programs and initiatives.

Conclusion

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the newest addition to the Smithsonian family of museums, and it offers a unique and compelling perspective on American history and culture. Whether you are a student, a scholar, a history buff, or a casual visitor, the NMAAHC is a must-see destination that will educate, inspire, and challenge you. By following this guide, you can plan your visit effectively and make the most of your time at this important institution.