National Civil War Museum | Harrisburg

The National Civil War Museum, located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is a unique and comprehensive institution dedicated to presenting the full scope of the American Civil War. Opened in 2001, it is the only museum in the United States that portrays the Civil War from both the Union and Confederate perspectives, offering a balanced and inclusive view of this pivotal period in American history.

Location and Setting

The museum sits atop Reservoir Park at 1 Lincoln Circle, one of the highest points in Harrisburg, providing scenic views of the city and surrounding areas. This elevated position adds to the museum's presence as a landmark in the region. The building itself is modern, thoughtfully designed to house extensive exhibits while providing comfortable visitor amenities.

Mission and Philosophy

The museum’s mission is to foster lifelong learning about the Civil War by preserving and interpreting artifacts and stories from all sides involved in the conflict. It strives to present a balanced narrative, acknowledging the complex causes, consequences, and human experiences of the war without bias.

Exhibits and Collections

The National Civil War Museum’s collection includes over 24,000 artifacts. These range from:

Uniforms and Military Gear: Authentic clothing worn by soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies.

Weapons and Equipment: Rifles, pistols, swords, artillery pieces, and other armaments used during the war.

Personal Items: Letters, diaries, photographs, and everyday objects that provide insight into the lives of soldiers, nurses, and civilians.

Art and Memorials: Paintings, sculptures, and commemorative pieces that reflect how the war has been remembered and memorialized.

The museum’s exhibits are carefully curated to tell stories from multiple perspectives. Visitors learn about major battles, political decisions, social impacts, and the experiences of diverse groups such as African American soldiers, women, and civilians.

Educational Programs

The museum is deeply committed to education, offering a range of programs designed for students, families, educators, and history enthusiasts. These include:

Guided tours that contextualize exhibits and provide in-depth historical analysis.

Lectures and workshops by historians and experts.

Interactive and multimedia displays to engage younger visitors.

Special events commemorating important anniversaries and themes related to the Civil War.

The museum also serves as the National Headquarters for the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), linking it to active heritage and preservation groups.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors to the National Civil War Museum can expect:

Operating Hours: Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on major holidays like New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Admission Fees: Reasonable ticket prices with discounts for seniors, students, and families.

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with amenities for visitors with disabilities.

Amenities: On-site gift shop offering books, memorabilia, and educational materials, restrooms, and vending machines.

Event Space

In addition to its role as a museum, the facility offers over 8,000 square feet of event space with panoramic views. This space is available for private events such as weddings, corporate meetings, and special gatherings, making the museum not only a place of history but also a community venue.

Summary

The National Civil War Museum stands out as a vital institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the American Civil War in a balanced, comprehensive way. Its extensive collection, educational outreach, and respectful presentation of multiple perspectives make it a valuable destination for anyone interested in this defining chapter of American history. The museum not only honors the past but also encourages reflection and learning for future generations.