The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA is the largest Civil War museum in the country uniquely portraying both Northern and Southern perspectives on the greatest conflict in American history. The Museum, which overlooks the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley at Harrisburg, contains one of the world's largest single collection of artifacts from the American Civil War era with over 4,000 three-dimensional artifacts and 20,000 archival items.

Approximately one-third of these wonderfully informative items are currently on display in the permanent galleries of the Museum. Its collections vary in scope and years, and range from Gen. Robert E. Lee's personal Bible, to the first edition printing of Frederick Douglass' autobiography.

Representing the pre-War period, for example, collections include artifacts that reflect the nature of sectional and regional controversies which followed the formation of the United States. The Museum's collection of artifacts representing the War years emphasize the civilian experience as well as the military venues of the conflict.

This can be a great idea for an educational, yet enjoyable family vacation!