(AURN News) — The African American Civil War Museum in Washington has reopened after a multiyear renovation, unveiling expanded galleries, improved accessibility and more than 200 artifacts, according to the Howard University News Service.
The museum, founded in 1999, preserves the history of Black soldiers who served in the U.S. Colored Troops during the Civil War.
Founder and executive director Frank Smith said descendants remain essential to telling the stories behind the names and military records.
One new exhibit, “From Slavery to the White House,” traces former first lady Michelle Obama’s family connections to formerly enslaved ancestors linked to the U.S. Colored Troops.
Descendants and community members attended the reopening, while museum officials emphasized preserving Black Civil War history and connecting visitors with Washington’s historic Black institutions.
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