Editor’s Note: All programs are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Visitors should be prepared for a security check upon entrance to the museum. Program attendees should arrive 30 minutes in advance. For a complete schedule of activities check: http://americanhistory.si.edu.
Opening:
“My Computing Devices” is a showcase display examining the complex story of American innovation, experimentation and ownership of computing devices. The display is divided into two section: the pre-1940s “mechanical” world, and the post-1940s “electronic” one. With objects dating from 1840 to 2013, including a Hewlett-Packard calculator, Simon gaming device, TRS-80 Model 100 microcomputer, iPad and Google Glass computerized glasses, the display demonstrates how both mechanical and electronic devices ushered in the digital age.
Events:
Each year the museum marks Julia Child’s August 15 birthday with a themed cooking demonstration. Guest chef Lynne Just of Sur La Table joins Smithsonian Food Historian Ashley Rose Young tohighlight Julia and Paul’s shared love of food and their home life in America and abroad, and Paul’s role in encouraging and supporting Julia as she pursued her culinary career. For more information, visit: http://americanhistory.si.edu/topics/food/pages/cooking-history.
HISTORY ALIVE! THEATER PROGRAMS:
Women’s History Theater Programs are offered in conjunction with the Smithsonian’s American Women’s History Initiative, #BecauseofHerStory
Attend an 1840 meeting of the Ipswich Female Anti-Slavery Society in abolitionist Lucy Caldwell’s Ipswich, Massachusetts home.
Meet wheelwoman Louise Gibson as she takes her bicycle on a journey to discover opportunities for women in the 1890s.
Join a Silent Sentinel Suffragist on her way to the 1917 White House protests.
Centered on the Greensboro Lunch Counter display, this program trains visitors in the practice of nonviolent direct action.
Sing along with “ring shouts”—which originated from 19th century enslaved African Americans—and inspired new forms of religious and secular music.
Daily Programs:
The museum’s early learning gallery for children 0–6 connects important themes of the museum’s collections with children’s play and learning. Wonderplace provides young children with open-ended play opportunities that allow them to explore and learn at their own pace and interest level. For more information, please visit: https://americanhistory.si.edu/wonderplace.
Spark!Lab reveals the real story behind inventors’ work through hands-on activities infused with historical content that help kids ages 6-12 explore the history and process of invention. Hosted by the museum’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation, Spark!Lab’s interdisciplinary activities appeal to varied learning styles and abilities and combine traditional STEM with art and creativity.
The activities of Spark!Lab change quarterly. For details about current Spark!Lab activities, please visit http://invention.si.edu/current-sparklab-activities.
- Flag Folding
Take part in folding a true-to-size replica of the Star-Spangled Banner while exploring the history of the flag that inspired the national anthem.
- Interactive Carts
Interactive carts throughout the Museum allow visitors to interact with history and learn more about our collections. Carts are available most days; daily schedules are available at the museum's Welcome Center on the second floor and the Information Desk on the first floor. More information on daily programs and events is available at http://americanhistory.si.edu/events.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM:
Through incomparable collections, rigorous research and dynamic public outreach, the National Museum of American History explores the infinite richness and complexity of American history. It helps people understand the past in order to make sense of the present and shape a more humane future. The museum is located on Constitution Avenue N.W., between 12th and 14th streets, and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed Dec. 25). Admission is free. For more information, visit http://americanhistory.si.edu. For Smithsonian information, the public may call (202) 633-1000.