Sunday, August 15, 2010

The Smithsonian - National Museum of American History

The two most popular exhibits in the National Museum of American History are the Flag exhibit and the First Ladies Dress exhibit. In the flag exhibit is a national treasure - the actual flag that inspired Frances Scott Key to write the Star Spangled Banner. In front of the exhibit is a huge two floor flag made in metallic gold and silver. Quite spectacular.
This was the huge flag that was raised at Baltimore's Fort McHenry on September 14, 1814, to celebrate an important victory over the British in the War of 1812. It is said the sight of those "broad strips and bright stars" inspired Francis Scott Key to write what would become the United States national anthem.

(Note: This flag is in a environmentally-sealed chamber and photographs are not allowed. This picture is from the Smithsonian website)



The First Ladies Dress exhibit was also fantastic. I can see why it is so popular.

Martha Washington's Dress

Mary Lincoln's Dress Maimi Eishenhouer's Dress Jackie Kennedy's Dress
Rosalynn Carter's Dress Michelle Obama's Dress

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