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Fort Ward Museum, erected in the 1960s, was patterned after wooden, board and batten style military structures built in the camps and forts around Washington during the Civil War. Note the white, curved trim on the two-story building called gingerbread, a popular feature used on Victorian houses during the 1800s. Inside the Museum you will see many original Civil War period objects which curators and other staff care for, conserve and display. Among the objects on view are uniforms, diaries and letters belonging to Union soldiers, weapons and military equipment, surgeons’ tools, musical instruments, and photographs. These authentic objects and images are displayed in thematic exhibits on topics such as medical care, the artillery, and the common soldier. When in the Museum, be sure to stop at the three-dimensional model of Fort Ward to see a small scale version of how the site looked during the Civil War. Also see the large map which outlines the extensive ring of forts comprising the Defenses of Washington, called "Mr. Lincoln’s Forts." An orientation video provides an excellent overview of the history of Fort Ward, the best preserved of all the Civil War forts around Washington, and the wartime defense of the Union capital. Historic site and exhibit brochures are available at the Museum. The Museum shop offers books, postcards and reproduction items for sale.

Conducted tours for public and private school groups:
The price of the 90-minute conducted school tour has been changed from $1 to $2. The minimum number of students is 12, the maximum is 60. Must be booked in advance; no-shows will be booked for the full price of the tour in not cancelled 24 hours in advance. Fee will be waived in the event of inclement weather. Available Tuesday-Friday. Ages eight through high school only, aimed at students who are studying the Civil War as part of an elementary or secondary school curriculum.

A new tour option has been added, called “Meet and Greet”
10-minute introduction/orientation by Museum staff, followed by a self-guided walking tour. Available Tuesday through Sunday for groups of a minimum of 12 persons. Suitable for adults and/or children. Works well for home school groups with a variety of student ages, scouts, family groups, clubs. Must be booked in advance. No charge.

Related Topics

• Buildings and Architecture
• Museum Shop