My first trip down to DC was many years ago. When visiting, my friend gave me a tour of the Smithsonian’s American History Museum. I absolutely loved it. It was like nothing I had ever seen before, as I was quite young. I have wanted to come back for years. Although I frequently come to Washington, the museum has either been closed or I have been too busy. Today, we went to the museum. It was exhilarating to return. As a history major, it was like heaven. I was not impressed with the presidential section, as I feel last time there was much more to offer, although this time, artifacts were more secured. I don’t think the Industrial/ Invention section changed much, but I don’t know if it could get any better. There were so many retired, life-sized models of engines, generators, and various other mechanics necessary for the age we now live in. I was very impressed with the new food center at the museum. If I remember correctly, the only food restaurant was an over-crowded sub shop. It was in desperate need of renovation. The new food center is awesome.
What I thought was the coolest thing at the museum was the latest edition to the Iraq War/Occupation section. Next to the war display was a display of an important event in history. Along with over 100,000 other people, I was part of the ANSWER Coalition’s September 15, 2007 protest and march on the capital. We first demonstrated in Lafayette Park and then stormed marched on the hill. There was a police line set up, where we saw hundreds of people arrested preforming civil disobedience. I was next to many people getting pepper-sprayed by the brutal ‘capital police.’ On display was a picture of many of the mass protest, as well as two anti-war signs used, both of which are on display on my porch. I was overwhelmed with pride and joy to think something I did is now on display in the Smithsonian.
Although I am having a great time, the wind chill is less than favorable. It is so cold here. When I usually come here, it is in the spring, summer, and fall. I have never been here in the winter. I recognize the current weather is unusually cold, but it is almost unbearable. It certainly had interrupted my independant plans. I am glad I am not up in Western PA/NY to put up with the weather they are now recieving though.
