DC History Center

Full disclosure: I’ve volunteered at DC History Center in the past. Heads up, the research library is only open Tuesday and Thursday by appointment (as of this writing).

The big picture: The DC History Center is a hidden gem of DC’s museum landscape.

Why you should go: the staff is helpful, the exhibits are informative and it’s a budget-friendly way to understand DC’s neighborhoods, culture and political status

The bottom line: if you are interested in DC local history, photography or beaux-arts architecture, then this museum is for you. Remember to check out the basement floor and the second floor to get the whole experience!

Beautiful place outside but I’m mad about to see instead historical place the F Apple Store. Good job

If you’re a fan of architecture then this is a must-see. Formerly the Carnegie Library, it was masterfully restored in 2019. The lower level, in particular, has an amazing ceiling detail. That level showcases a photographic review of the history of the library. The main exhibit is on the top level (be aware of its limited viewing hours). The space is batted in natural light as you ascend the staircase. The Apple Store occupies the main level.

On a random day in DC browsing thru the Apple Store, I discovered the DC History center that is located on the second floor of the historic Carnegie Library.

At the time of my visit, the pop up exhibit entitled DC Home Rule 50 was on display. The collection of images highlights topics such as DC statehood and full citizenship.

I was very intrigued by the panoramic photos of black culture in the 1950’s & 1960’s. Especially the junior high school picture of Marvin Gaye.

The museum is free to visit, however donations are always welcomed.

Fun and interesting history of DC! Great for people new to DC to get the history of the city and have an amazing shop. It's not large, but it's what you make of it, and I found it enjoyable.

if you want to learn about false history that’s really witchcraft it’s great place maybe they will have the blood soaked flag was wrapped on Lincoln.Ever notice how it’s war stories and death real good for class trips young children.People running center witches and Freemasons professional liars

When you arrive at the home of The D.C.History Center, don't be confused by the Apple logos on the front of the building (the Center shares space with an Apple Store on the first floor).

When you enter this beautifully restored building, head upstairs to the History Center where it's very likely you will be greeted by a friendly member of the Historical Society of Washington, D.C.

There were two exhibits open when we visited, a panoramic photo display called The Big Picture and a room size timeline called the D.C. Hall of History. They really do a great job of celebrating the culture and history of D.C., not just as the nation's capital but as a city with its own story to tell. Plan to spend an hour here at most.

The Kiplinger Research Library was not yet open, but should resume operation in August of 2019.

Went there to see info on Washington City history. Nothing to see there. Empty first floor. Second floor had an exhibit about future projects in DC and a research library that would have been nice to use, but you have to make an appointment.