This month is National Museum and Galleries Month, as specifically observed for the Philippines, but we want to applaud the work of the many organizations, institutions and non-profits far and wide which allow us to learn and reflect on a myriad of topics and interests from air and space to science and industry to the arts to baseball bats.
Particularly on our mind is the good work of one of our clients, the Daughters of the American Revolution. Especially as we begin the ramp up to events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of our great nation, we want to draw some attention to the good work of the DAR.
Did you know there is a free museum, open year ‘round in the DAR headquarters building that occupies an entire city block in Washington, DC, very near the White House? Contained in that historic space are rotating exhibits that have included in the near past Sewn in America, a deep dive into the textiles and fabric arts that developed along with our country, and Fighting for Freedom, a long look at the Black and indigenous craftsman whose handiwork was pivotal to the founding of our country.
Fighting for Freedom is on display through the end of this calendar year, then will be a traveling exhibit visiting key locations around our nation, bringing this history to town halls and city squares throughout America. Find detail about this exhibit and previous main gallery exhibitions curated here.
Beyond the main gallery space with specialty topics and regular, standing exhibits, the DAR headquarters boasts 31 period rooms throughout the historic city block building. Offering visitors a glimpse into the way things were in various periods of time during our nation’s founding, each period room showcases American history through the years. There is an 1810s bedroom, a dining room from the 1820s, a parlor from the 1860s parlor, a children’s playroom with handmade toys from other eras, and a music room where people can just imagine a house party around the harpsicord.
So, next time you’re in DC, do yourself a favor and visit the DAR Museum and period rooms – it’s a way to remember our past to direct our future. Or avail yourself of any of the other rich opportunities to explore other cultures and interests. Happy Museums and Galleries Month!