HERE'S HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR NATIONAL CIVIL WAR MUSEUM VISIT


By ikempf
The inside of the national civil war museum.

The Civil War was a tumultuous time for the United States of America. The North and the South were completely divided in regards to the fate of slavery. Much death and violence was had during those four years, but in the end the North’s efforts saw that the slaves were given freedom like any other man. It was a dark and bloody time in this nation’s history, but it’s to be remembered so as not to allow something like that ever to happen again. The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania stands as one such reminder. If you find yourself headed toward Pennsylvania, consider taking a pit-stop to see the history for yourself.

Visiting the National Civil War Museum

The National Civil War Museum exists to retain the memory of the Civil War, and the historical significance. They’re goal is to present the story of the Civil War not through any one lens, but as the true account of what happened during that time. By doing this, they are keeping alive the truth of the ordeal, putting it on display for everyone to see.The Harrisburg, PA National Civil War Museum boasts a good roster of activities for visitors to enjoy during their trip. Depending on what you (or your family) like, you’re sure to find something that suits your fancy. For example, activities include:Field Trips:

  • If you have children, this is a great option. Starting at $10 for a student and $11 for a chaperone, field trips will educate children on the history behind the Civil War and its importance toward America’s growth as a country. Lastly, if you’re interested in planning a field trip, click here to learn more.

Group Tours:

  • Starting at $10 for a student and $11 for a senior/adult, group tours are designed to fit a wider audience. Spanning 17 galleries that detail the story of the Civil War, groups will be fully immersed into Civil War history. Group tours must be scheduled 2 weeks in advance before the start date. If you’re interested in this, click here for more information.

Private Events:

  • Private events are offered for those who want to use the National Civil War Museum’s facilities. There are many different events on the roster, ranging from weddings, rentals for banquets and social events, and corporate events. The National Civil War Museum also offers a selection of third-party caterer recommendations to cater your event. More information in regards to booking can be found here.

How Can I Support the National Civil War Museum?

If you do decide to visit Harrisburg, PA’s National Civil War Museum, consider supporting them in other ways. As a non-profit organization, the museum uses all of its funds for the project, but even then it could still use some help from the community. If you enjoy/enjoyed your visit and want to show your support then here are a couple of ways in which you can do so:

  • Donation: Your donation to the National Civil War Museum can help to keep the organization’s mission alive and well. Donations pay for everything ranging from hosting their tours, installing upgrades, preservation of historical records, heating & cooling, community events, and providing discounts to future visitors.
  • Membership: The National Civil War Museum offers a membership program for those who want to get more involved. The membership comes in four tiers: Major, Colonel, Brigadier General, and President. Members will get:
    • Free unlimited access to the museum
    • A minimum of 2 guest passes for friends or family
    • Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours
    • 15% off discount at gift shops
    • 10% off facility rental discount
    • Quarterly member newsletter
  • Volunteering: Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community. Volunteers at the National Civil War Museum will help further the mission of the organization by:
    • Make visitors feel welcome by greeting them.
    • Catalog and transcribe archival documents.
    • Support the museum’s public programs and student tours.
    • Participate in outreach activities both on and off-site.
  • The Memorial Brick Program: This program exists to memorialize or honor an individual or particular moment in time through the use of installing bricks in the Walk of Valor walkway. In sum, once a brick is purchased, donors will receive a certificate that can be given as a gift and a photo.

Diving Into the History of the National Civil War Museum

America as a country has a long and storied history, some of those chapters being much darker than others. The Civil War is one such part of the story that many have in some ways tried to forget. Though the Civil War was violent that left many unsure of the nation’s survival, it nevertheless remains a pivotal turning point in this country’s mission for freedom and equality for all.The Harrisburg, PA National Civil War Museum stands as a monument to remind the people of how far this country has fallen before and managed to pick itself back up and out of the ditch that it dug for itself. By supporting these organizations that have dedicated themselves to the preservation of the United States' history, we also help to keep our country a better place by never forgetting the cost of what it took to get us to where we are now as a nation.Read next:


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