African American Civil War Museum to Reopen

The African American Civil War Museum is reopening in a new location in Washington to give it more space for exhibits and programs.

The museum opened on U Street in 1999 near the African American Civil War Memorial to help visitors understand the contributions of black soldiers. On July 18, it celebrates its grand reopening nearby in a former school building on Vermont Avenue near the memorial.

The new location provides about 5,000 square feet after a $5 million renovation. The original location only had about 700 square feet. The new museum includes a media center and research area for descendants and scholars.

On July 17, the museum will host a film festival. It also plans to hold future jazz and gospel festivals to reflect the neighborhood's musical history.