Day 77 of 110: Americana Collection

On my first visit to the DAR headquarters, I completely overlooked a unique exhibit area simply called the Americana collection. The collection houses various historical manuscripts, to include original documents that contain the signature of signers of the Declaration of Independence. DAR describes the Americana Collection best as one that

offers more than 4,000 diverse American imprints and manuscripts. The focus of the collection is on Colonial America, the Revolutionary War Era, and the early Republic, but the breadth of the collection spans five centuries.

The DAR treasury includes diaries and letters; military papers; governmental papers; birth, baptismal and marriage records; autographs; newspapers; maps; legal and court records; and music and photos. Visitors to the Americana Room can view the collection's holdings arranged in exhibits which change periodically to reflect different themes. Past exhibits have captured the essence of the American Revolution, illustrated schooling in America, and showcased Signers of the United States Constitution.

 The Americana Collection also offers online exhibits. One currently available includes letters from women active in the American Suffrage movement. Take time to enjoy this wonderful collection!