8.2/2014--Karen and I went to the National Museum of American History while the guys went to the Air and Space Museum.  The first section we visited included viewing the original flag, sewn by Mary Pickersgill in 1812, that flew over Fort McHenry during the British bombardment on September 13th and 14th, 1814 and inspired Frances Key Scott to write the poem that became our National Anthem.  The original size was 30 X 42 feet.  After the war, pieces were cut for souvenirs, including one of the stars as you can see on the posters shown below.  We were not allowed to take photos in this area so only have the three (3) shown below that were outside the gallery.

The following photos are in the Presidents and First Ladies sections.  Inaugural ball gowns and White House China selected by the First Ladies are on display.  Below are a few selected photos.  Also some of the photos from the Presidents section.

In 1776, Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence on this portable desk (see plaque above)

George Washington heads home