Museum Guide News

Kit Carson House, Dedicated to Preserving our History! At The Carson House & Museum in Taos, New Mexico we are dedicated to preserving the early history of our region. The home is a National Historic Landmark as well as being listed on the New Mexico Cultural Properties Register. The non-profit is committed to preserving the site while developing a museum dedicated to the critical exploration of the complicated history and consequences of US Westward expansion into the Northern Rio Grande Valley. Christoher “Kit” Carson was a figure of consequence in the history of the American West. He was a skilled guide and scout, Indian Agent for the Northern New Mexico Territory, Presidential courier, and U.S. Army Officer as well as a husband and father. Fluent in multiple languages he was especially effective communicating on the frontier. His life experience and choices offer us invaluable insights into 19th-century America and the US westward expansion. We are committed to sharing his story in context with broader perspectives and authenticity Carson fought in three significant wars. Kit fought in the Mexican-American War with General Kearny's forces at the Battle of San Pasqual. Later as a Colonel he led the First New Mexico Volunteers against Confederate forces at the Civil War Battle of Valverde, New Mexico. He later fought in the Indian Wars and led campaigns against the Mescalero Apache and Navajo. Carson was brevetted Brigadier General by orders from President Abraham Lincoln. He was the only General in US Army history who could neither read nor write. The structure celebrated its 200-year birthday in 2025. The site has recently been awarded a Save America's Treasures Grant from the National Park Service in the amount of $750K. The grant requires a 1:1 dollar match -please go to our website and click on Donate to be a part of the effort! The Restoration Project will focus on the preservation and rehabilitation of the Carson Home and surrounding structures. The goal will be to restore the National Historic Landmark and develop a museum to accommodate historical exhibits, interpretative graphics, interactive multimedia features, and historical artifacts. https://www.kitcarsonhouse.org/restoration-efforts https://www.kitcarsonhouse.org/restoration-efforts We look forward to welcoming you to the Kit Carson House Museum in Taos, NM and exploring the deep history and exploration of our Native People and the impact Kit Carson had! https://www.kitcarsonhouse.org/

The French Lick West Baden Museum, was established in 2007 for French Lick's 150th birthday! The museum began retelling the stories of our incredible towns as a pop-up museum. In 2011, we returned and in 2014 our current location was placed in the beautifully restored Dickason Building in downtown French Lick. Today, we continue to tell the incredible histories of our towns through impressive exhibits, interactive experiences, and first-person stories. We also, have a wonderful Gift Shop featuring old fashion candy and toys for you to visit! We feature two exhibits: The CASINO EXHIBIT- We were Vegas before there was a Vegas… despite the fact that gambling in Indiana was illegal. The Springs Valley boasted several documented casinos from the 1860's until 1949 when the state stopped looking the other way. You’ll see relics from those old casinos and learn about some of the characters who ran them. The CROSS EXHIBIT- Local artists Henry and Ferdinand Cross made and sold their work out of a place known as Cross Cave. Henry was a painter and Ferdinand was a stone carver. The Cross Brothers moved to southern Indiana in the mid-1800's and would gain national acclaim.  We have a display of Henry’s magnificent paintings and Ferdinand's spectacular Cross columns and fireplace; vivid examples of what Ferdinand could do with a chunk of raw limestone, working in a cave. And of course, you can’t come to French Lick and not know about LARRY BIRD! One of the greatest to play the game and is a home town boy.  Larry Bird, "The Hick From French Lick", starred at Indiana State University before joining the NBA's Boston Celtics in 1979. Over the course of his 13-year Hall of Fame career, the sharpshooting forward led the Celtics to three NBA titles and claimed three MVP awards. Visit us and discover how he got started. Come see our recent exhibit for limited time - When Governors Met in the Valley. Stories and artifacts from 1923 West Baden Springs Hotel, 1931 and 1971 French Lick Springs Hotel Governors Conventions.  We also are the Home of The World's Largest Circus Diorama!   So, we look forward to your visit, and to stepping back into history with us! https://www.flwbmuseum.com/  

At the Richard I. Bong Museum, experience “Marge,” our beautifully restored P-38 Lightning, stand beside our M60 tank, and enjoy the scenic hiking trail just beyond our grounds. Step into history and immerse yourself in powerful, firsthand accounts from veterans spanning World War II to today. The Real Top Gun- Born in Superior, Wisconsin, Dick Bong rose to national prominence as America’s greatest fighter ace. During World War II, he shot down 40 enemy aircraft in the Pacific Theater, securing his place in history. Discover the life, courage, and legacy of this remarkable young man.  Plan Your Visit- Join us for guided or self-guided tours and connect with the history that shaped our world. Walk with heroes—visit today. More than a museum, we are a living tribute to those who served, both on the front lines and the home front. Meet our volunteers, hear their stories, and leave inspired. We host a variety of veteran-focused programs throughout the year, including a Boundary Waters retreat, the service of over 300 Thanksgiving meals annually, and commemorative events for major military holidays. Our outreach extends into the community through veteran-led presentations and demonstrations at schools and organizations. Our educational programs welcome students from across northern Wisconsin and Minnesota, offering hands-on learning through authentic artifacts and direct engagement with veteran experiences. When schools can’t come to us, we bring history to them. Beyond our local impact, we are committed to a global mission. Mission Marge, launched in 2024, began as an effort to locate Dick Bong’s P-38, “Marge,” which crashed in Papua New Guinea. Since discovering the site, we have worked to honor its historical significance while expanding humanitarian efforts in nearby communities. We look forward to welcoming you any time of the year!  https://bongcenter.org/  

Since 1999, the Cavalla Historical Foundation assumed oversight of the Galveston Naval Museum and its mission to restore, maintain and operate USS Cavalla, USS Stewart, the sail of the USS Tautog (SSN-639) and the conning tower of the USS Carp (SS-338).  The Galveston Naval Museum, rich in history houses a captivating artifact collection, featuring restored vessels, vintage products and machinery, and weaponry. Each item tells a story of naval history, taking visitors on a journey through time, honoring bravery and ingenuity of sailors. Step into the annals of history at the Galveston Naval Museum. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant coastal city, our historic venue offers a unique and captivating setting for your special event as well. Hosting your gathering amidst the backdrop of beautifully preserved naval vessels pays tribute to the historical sacrifices that allow us to be here today. The sea breeze and stunning views further enhance the ambiance, reminding us of the resilience and dedication that have shaped our world. Whether it's a corporate function, a special celebration, or a memorable gathering, our team is dedicated to ensuring your event is truly exceptional. Join us at the Galveston Naval Museum, where history comes alive, providing the perfect backdrop for timeless memories. We also offer sleep overs! Sleep in the same quarters where sailors bunked 75 years ago aboard the USS Stewart.  Come take an exclusive private tour and learn the science of ships, the importance of preservation and the heritage of our nation’s military.  Complete your assigned mission and become an honorary ensign. The Museum is COMMEMORATING 100 YEARS OF HONORING VETERANS! In 1919, President Wilson marked the first celebration of Armistice Day, making it a National Holiday. Honor your favorite Veteran this year by making a $25 donation in their name by clicking the button below. The Veteran's name will appear on our Veteran Honor Roll. https://www.galvestonnavalmuseum.com/veterans So, when you’re in Galveston or in the area check us out and all we have to offer our patrons – “From harm’s way to historic” you don’t want to miss the history we display in our museum! We're open every day from 9am - 6pm: (409) 770-3196 https://www.galvestonnavalmuseum.com/   Museum Address: 100 Seawolf Parkway, Galveston, Texas    

Mesalands Community College’s Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory opened to the public in May of 2000. The Museum receives approximately 5,000 visitors each year and our guests represent all 50 states and over 40 foreign countries. Guests to the Museum return year after year to see the changes, improvements, and new exhibits that our staff is continually planning and completing. The Exhibit Hall at the Mesalands Community College’s Dinosaur Museum houses a host of replicated and original fossils from tiny footprint casts to the 40′ long skeleton Torvosaurus, a rare carnivore relative of Tyrannosaurus rex which hails from the Jurassic period. The Museum’s focus is on the Mesozoic period, which is also known as ‘The Age of Dinosaurs.’ The Mesozoic is comprised of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The museum cultivates specimens from exclusive local dig sites. Guests are able to view Paleontology students and the curator preserve specimens through a viewing window located in the exhibit hall. Witness history as it’s uncovered and assembled in the laboratory. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of minerals from all over the world. These are displayed in the exhibit hall and sold in the gift shop. We welcome you to learn more about our Dinosaur Museum and Mesalands Community College, by clicking our website!  https://www.mesalands.edu/community/dinosaur-museum/ Mesalands Community College’s Dinosaur Museum222 East Laughlin Street - Tucumcari, NM - (575) 461-6627  

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum, in Madison is dedicated to the people of Wisconsin who served in the armed forces and honors the role of all veterans in shaping Wisconsin military history and that of the nation. The Museum exists to share and preserve the stories of all Wisconsin veterans and where you can dig into the veteran experience and their service to our communities, state, and nation. Beginning with the Wisconsin Civil War regiments view regimental history and the battle flags that guided them. Through to veterans in recent service, explore what our servicemembers did, how that work impacted themselves and their families, and how their service contributed to national and global security. In addition, for an understanding of the contributions of Wisconsin veterans and to preserve and share their legacy, the museum has more than 2800 oral history interviews with veterans from World War I through to the 21st century. Furthermore, our database of service records for Wisconsin veterans provide details of the who, where, and when. Scout our collections for thousands of service-related three-dimensional objects, papers, diaries, and photographs documenting and preserving Wisconsin military history. This year we are celebrating our 125th Anniversary and we would like to join us! Our start was born out of the desire of Civil War veterans to honor the service of their comrades and to educate future generations about the cost of liberty and the continued effort required to protect our freedom, this organization has collected, preserved and shared the stories of Wisconsin veterans since 1901. We invite you to explore our story, from the steadfast efforts of the Grand Army of the Republic veterans to the dedicated staff of today who preserve and share the stories of Wisconsin veterans from the Civil War to present. https://wisvetsmuseum.com/125-years-of-sharing-our-veterans-stories/ We look forward to welcoming you and for you to begin your exploration of our museum! The Wisconsin Veterans Museum is an educational activity of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs. Check us out online: https://wisvetsmuseum.com/    

The National Museum of Civil War Medicine, located in the heart of historic downtown Frederick, Maryland, is just one of three different museums operated under the same umbrella. In Frederick at the main Museum, visitors will learn how the innovation of Civil War medicine impacts the present day. The Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office Museum, located in Northwest Washington, DC, is the wartime home of Clara Barton. From her boardinghouse, she brought medical supplies to the front lines during the Civil War and led the search for missing soldiers after the conflict. The Pry House Field Hospital Museum is located on Antietam National Battlefield. Visitors to the Pry House can see an original Civil War field hospital, the civilian impact of Civil War battles, and the site of one of America’s medical turning points. Explore downtown Frederick’s storied past with our signature walking tours. Every Saturday and Sunday from April – September, walking tours of Frederick’s hospital sites will be available at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays and 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Walking tours last for an hour to an hour and a half. With accounts taken from the diaries and letters of the surgeons, soldiers, and civilians who were there, this guided walking tour will explore the locations of the city’s Civil War hospitals in churches, schools, and public buildings. This program is an excellent way to take in downtown Frederick as many of those same buildings still make up the historic district today. Throughout the American Civil War, Frederick, Md., played a vital role for both Union and Confederate armies. Soldiers marched beneath the “Clustered Spires” on their way to battles at Antietam, Gettysburg, and Monocacy. The “One Vast Hospital” tour focuses on the wreckage left behind. At any given time, the National Museum of Civil War Medicine can display a small fraction of the 5,000+ artifacts in our collection. The “Artifacts Revealed” series highlights objects from the collection that are rarely on display. Beyond offering a special glimpse of our artifacts, the videos offer a snapshot of the exciting, interesting, and unusual stories we tell at the museum. For example, most people never consider that brain surgery was even attempted during the Civil War, but the video focused on the trephine changes that perception in a little more than one minute. Changing perceptions, whether in the museum or online, can easily lead them to further discoveries about how Civil War medicine changed the world. We encourage you to visit our museum and see our collection, that in ways would have been unimaginable only a few years ago. The museum has been tasked with stewardship of these priceless artifacts and we utilize them to tell the story of medical care in our nation’s bloodiest conflict. “Artifacts Revealed” represent our latest, evolving efforts to tell an important national story through digital means and encourage visitors to trek to the “Crossroads of War” – Frederick, Maryland. We look forward to seeing you this year – check us out online for more information: https://www.civilwarmed.org/

The New Mexico Holocaust & Intolerance Museum and Gellert Center for Education uses lessons and personal stories of the Holocaust and other genocides to educate and inspire communities of upstanders. This unique museum experience reinforces the idea that every single one of us can make a positive difference. Located in the heart of downtown Albuquerque, the New Mexico Holocaust & Intolerance Museum provides a unique educational experience for visitors from around the world. The only museum of its type in the state, it opened in January of 2001. The institution was founded by Werner Gellert, a Holocaust survivor, his wife, Frankie, and Juliana K. Lerner, also a Holocaust survivor. Their intent was to show--along with the Holocaust--genocides and other instances of organized hate in the hopes that such atrocities might never happen again. We embody that mission through our exhibits which describe hate groups in America, propaganda, the Armenian genocide, the Chinese exclusion Act, colonization as it affected Native Americans, and the African-American experience. Our collections include a diverse array of unique artifacts, including the Flossenbürg Flag, a replica of the United States flag made by prisoners of the Flossenbürg concentration camp to welcome their liberators.  In keeping with our focus on education and outreach, we revived school visits which had been suspended due to COVID. Recently, nearly 200 middle and high school students were welcomed at the museum. After a guided tour of the exhibits, they had the incredible opportunity to hear the story of a local Holocaust survivor who was a hidden child. By studying the Holocaust, these youngsters learned about historical consequences of prejudice, hate, and intolerance, and how to combat these forces in their own lives. They learned what it means to be an upstander rather than a bystander. The New Mexico Holocaust & Intolerance Museum is a one-of-a-kind highlight to any Albuquerque vacation. Visit us to learn what you can do to prevent hate and intolerance and make our world a better, more equal place for all! 505-247-0606 https://nmholocaustmuseum.org/     

Celebrate Gloucester’s 375th and America’s 250th at the Museum of History! W. Robert Kelly, Jr., Historic Resources Supervisor Gloucester County Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Throughout 2026, Gloucester County, Virginia, proudly celebrates two milestones: the nation’s 250th anniversary and the county’s 375th birthday. Established in 1651, Gloucester stands among America’s oldest counties, with a history as complex as it is inspiring. That story comes to life at the Gloucester Museum of History. Housed within a tavern constructed in 1770, the Museum is located on Main Street in the heart of picturesque Gloucester Courthouse. Visitors of all ages can explore the county’s past through engaging exhibitions, artifacts, and interactive experiences that connect Gloucester to national stories of innovation, heroism, and sacrifice. In late 2025, the Museum unveiled a $130,000 exhibit to mark the 250 and 375th commemorations. Located on the second floor, believed to have once been the tavern’s ballroom, the new exhibit features engaging images, artifacts, and interactives, while showcasing the ballroom’s original 18th-century hardwood floors and window trim that evoke the ambiance of Colonial Williamsburg. Among the Museum’s most inspiring exhibits is Awakening: The Life & Legacy of T.C. Walker, which chronicles the journey of Gloucester’s first African American lawyer. Other visitor favorites include The Art of Carving: The Decoys of William McKinley Smith, featuring twenty-five hand-carved duck decoys, and Commerce Meets Community: Gloucester’s Country Stores, which brings the past to life with over fifty artifacts and several 120-year-old ledger books. An exhibit also shares the story of the 1781 Battle of the Hook, the largest cavalry battle of the American Revolution and key allied victory that contributed to the surrender at Yorktown. The Museum and nearby Courtcircle offer a complete experience. Guests can explore historic buildings, including the 1766 Courthouse, one of the oldest in Virginia. The Museum is open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and admission is free.  https://gloucesterva.gov/museum-of-history  

The Sewickley Heights History Center, located in the heart of Sewickley Heights, Pennsylvania, is a nonprofit, non‑endowed museum dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and historical integrity of the region. For more than 20 years, the museum has served the community by offering visitors an opportunity to step back into the late 1800s through the 1930s, a period marked by the height of the American Industrial Revolution. During this era, many of Pittsburgh’s prominent steel industrialists established their homes in Sewickley Heights, building grand estates across its rolling hills. The museum showcases this rich heritage through its collection of memorabilia, brass-era vehicles, horse‑drawn carriages, and historic photographs. The onsite theater features a variety of informative short films produced in-house, further bringing the area’s history to life. The History Center also offers guided tours, educational lectures, live music events, and rental opportunities for the public, continuing its commitment to community engagement and historical preservation. Check us out online: https://sewickleyheightshistory.org/