The other day I found myself doing my civic duty (doesn't that sound more pleasant than the cringe-worthy call of jury duty? It's all about perspective, people.), which meant I found myself downtown. It was beautiful weather, so for my lunch break, it seemed only fitting to stroll the National Mall.
I've always marveled at the architecture of the National Archives. It's a perfect box. I refer to it as the present. Couldn't you just tie a bow around it? Well, it was about time that I made my way inside.
The National Archives is home to some of the most sacred founding documents, like the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence, made famous in movies with history buffs trying to steal these treasured pieces. But what really grabs the attention of an onlooker, or namely me, is the copy of the Magna Carta, perfectly on display. Cool, right?
Unlike other Smithsonians, where time flies and you feel as though you still didn't get to see everything on the list, the National Archives is an easy breeze through. Sure, you could spend hours on end with all that it has to offer, but I was able to fit in a pleasurable visit on an hour lunch break, with room to spare for a quick ham and cheese sammy.
And of course, thanks to British scientist James Smithson, it's free!
The National Archives is home to some of the most sacred founding documents, like the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence, made famous in movies with history buffs trying to steal these treasured pieces. But what really grabs the attention of an onlooker, or namely me, is the copy of the Magna Carta, perfectly on display. Cool, right?
Unlike other Smithsonians, where time flies and you feel as though you still didn't get to see everything on the list, the National Archives is an easy breeze through. Sure, you could spend hours on end with all that it has to offer, but I was able to fit in a pleasurable visit on an hour lunch break, with room to spare for a quick ham and cheese sammy.
And of course, thanks to British scientist James Smithson, it's free!
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