National Postal Museum
This museum about mail service is in a Historic City Post Office and features interactive displays, rotating stamp collections, and wartime letters.
The National Postal Museum, located in Washington D.C., is a hidden gem that offers a unique and fascinating look into the history of the United States Postal Service. The museum, which is part of the Smithsonian Institution, is home to one of the largest collections of stamps and postal artifacts in the world.
One of the highlights of the National Postal Museum is the "Stamps of America" exhibit, which features stamps from the earliest days of the U.S. Postal Service to the present day. Visitors can see stamps from the famous "Inverted Jenny" error stamp of 1918 to the modern "Forever" stamps that are used today. The exhibit also includes interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the history and design of stamps.
Another must-see exhibit is the "Mail by Rail" exhibit, which explores the history of mail transportation in America. This exhibit features artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that show how mail was transported by rail, from the early days of the railroads to the present. Visitors can see a replica of a mail car and learn about the role of the postal service in the development of the railroad system.
The National Postal Museum also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. The museum's "Smithsonian Learning Lab" is an online resource that allows visitors to explore the museum's collection and create their own digital projects. The museum also offers tours, lectures, and workshops for visitors who want to learn more about the history of the postal service.
The museum also has a collection of postal vehicles and equipment, including a stagecoach, a mail truck, and a mail plane. Visitors can see how mail was delivered in the past and learn about the evolution of postal transportation.
In addition to its collection and programming, the National Postal Museum is housed in a beautiful building, the Old City Post Office, which is a National Historic Landmark. Built in the early 20th century, it is one of the oldest surviving federal buildings in Washington, D.C.
The National Postal Museum is a must-see destination for history buffs, stamp collectors and anyone who wants to learn more about the role of the postal service in shaping America. With its extensive collection, dynamic exhibits, and educational programs, the museum offers a unique and enlightening look at the history of the postal service in America.