Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum

Description: As the United States commemorates its 250th anniversary, We Make History explores how history is created, preserved, and shared by everyday people and communities. The exhibition highlights the important role of local historians, archivists, activists, artists, families, and community members whose efforts help shape America’s historical narrative.

Centered on stories from Washington, DC and surrounding communities, the exhibition features remarkable artifacts, photographs, letters, sports memorabilia, music history items, and personal records that demonstrate how ordinary moments become part of the historical record. A centerpiece of the exhibition is the Plummer Family Diary, believed to be the only known multigenerational diary begun by an enslaved person in the United States.

Interactive elements encourage visitors to become “history keepers” themselves through creative activities, storytelling stations, and opportunities to reflect on how their own experiences contribute to family and community history. The exhibition is part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250 initiative celebrating the nation’s semiquincentennial.

The museum’s reopening weekend includes guided tours, family story times, hands-on art activities, curator talks, portrait stations, creative workshops, community programs, and opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore how stories are preserved and passed down through generations.

Date & Time: May 30, 2026 – January 2, 2028
 • Museum Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
 • Opening Day Celebration: May 30, 2026, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
 • Opening Weekend Activities: May 30–31, 2026

Why families love it
• Free Smithsonian exhibition and programming
• Hands-on activities encourage creativity and storytelling
• Helps children understand how everyday people shape history
• Interactive exhibits make history accessible and engaging
• Family-friendly opening weekend activities
• Strong connection to local DC history and community stories
• Inspires children to preserve their own family memories and experiences

⚠️ Good to know
• The exhibition marks the museum’s reopening after a temporary closure for installation of the new exhibit
• Opening Day (May 30) includes special family activities, workshops, curator talks, and guided tours throughout the day
• All opening weekend programs are free, though RSVP is encouraged for some activities
• The museum is accessible and family-friendly
• Easily combined with visits to other Smithsonian museums and attractions in Washington, DC

Best For
Families, students, history enthusiasts, homeschool groups, educators, community storytellers, and anyone interested in learning how ordinary people help create and preserve history. The exhibition’s interactive and self-paced format can also work especially well for children who learn best through hands-on experiences and personal connections to historical topics.

Cost: Free admission; no passes required.