A People’s Journey, A Nation’s Story

Welcome to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture

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As a public health precaution due to COVID-19 (coronavirus), the National Museum of African American History and Culture will temporarily close to the public starting Saturday, March 14. We are not announcing a re-opening date at this time and will provide updates on a regular and as needed basis.

All public events, programming and gatherings are canceled. Please visit our calendar of events for the latest updates. Our visitor passes page has updated information about individual and group passes.  We appreciate your understanding.

Engage with the Museum Online

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NMAAHC Digital Resources Guide

Explore, learn and engage with the National Museum of African American History and Culture through our numerous digital resources.
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Curator Chats: The Negro Renaissance During WWI

Museum Specialist, Tulani Salahu-Din, discusses the emergence and significance of the New Negro Renaissance during World War I.

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Featured Exhibition

Entrance to Double Victory exhibition. A large blue flag is framed in the center of the wall. All Exhibitions
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Double Victory

From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror, African Americans have served in the United States military. In defending their country, they hoped to earn freedom and citizenship and contribute to a changed America where racial equality was possible.
EXPLORE EXHIBITION

Wounded colored soldiers at Aikens Landing photographed between 1862 and 1865.
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A Segregated Military: Indian Wars, Spanish-American War and World War I

African American service from the American Revolution to the Civil War helped secure freedom and citizenship, but not equality. They served in a segregated military that reflected the racial prejudice and exclusion of society at large.
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Explore the Collection

Discover signature objects from the Museum's collection
Combat helmet from World War I used by the 93rd Infantry Division

Combat helmet from World War I used by the 93rd Infantry Division

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World War I Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Medal issued to Mrs. Margaret A. Neal

World War I Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Medal issued to Mrs. Margaret A. Neal

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World War I enlisted soldier's tunic and cigarette holder

World War I enlisted soldier's tunic and cigarette holder

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Binoculars used by Peter L. Robinson, Sr. during World War I

Binoculars used by Peter L. Robinson, Sr. during World War I

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Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform

Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform

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Combat helmet from World War I used by the 93rd Infantry Division
World War I Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Medal issued to Mrs. Margaret A. Neal
World War I enlisted soldier's tunic and cigarette holder
Binoculars used by Peter L. Robinson, Sr. during World War I
Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform
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The African American experience is the lens through which we understand what it is to be an American.

Lonnie G. Bunch III Founding Director, NMAAHC