American Presidential Museum in Branson, Missouri

Branson’s American Presidential Museum is the collection management arm of the National Center for Presidential Studies, a private, non-profit cultural and educational institution whose mission is to “preserve and promote American History and the history of the American Presidency through collections, programs, events and community outreach.”  Currently located in a temporary home as it raises cash for a new location, the museum and its artifacts were part of a privately-owned collection and attraction until 2006, when they were purchased by the Center for the purpose of educating more people about the American presidency.

 

 

This museum runs the gamut from George Washington, America’s first president, to current day. Visitors are greeted with a variety of things to explore, from hands-on exhibits to photos, documents, and other similar items. And because the collection is so vast and diverse, the museum indeed appeals to people of all ages, from those who are just learning the history of America to those who have a much more keen interest in the specifics of the democracy and how each president affected it.

A favorite exhibit of most visitors is the replica Oval Office. A model of the room in the White House where the president is said to make his most important decisions, this mini Oval Office is where visitors can take the oath of office, learn about the official presidential seal, and issue their own executive orders.

There’s also a fascinating replica of the Nixon-era Air Force One jet, which is a huge hit with kids, and guests can also peer inside President Reagan’s special limousine. Visitors can even pose with cardboard cut-outs of Presidents Kennedy, Clinton, and Bush, producing a fun souvenir for museum guests.

Nearby is another area known as the Freedom Shrine. This gallery takes guests on a journey through the United States’ road to freedom with photos and other information about more than two dozen of what organizers call “the most powerful documents in history.” While the real documents are not located at this Branson museum, visitors can view pictures of the actual documents, including the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Mayflower Compact, the World War II Articles of Surrender, and many others that played an important part in the shaping of the country and its people.

For something a little more light-hearted but equally as interesting, guests can visit the Hall of First Ladies, which includes a variety of artifacts and items belonging to Presidents’ wives beginning with Grace Coolidge and ending with Laura Bush. (Michelle Obama items are expected to be displayed soon.) Replicas of some of their famous inaugural gowns are also on display at the American Presidential Museum.

There’s also a unique seasonal displayed called “Christmas at the White House”, which features themed trees, copies of official White House Christmas cards, and many other interesting items. Contact the museum for exact dates.

Visitors to the museum are invited to embark upon a “History Hunt” when they enter the museum. Many families with younger children take up the task (though it’s enjoyable by all ages) and kids are given a special reward at the end of their visit for completing the hunt. The docents at the museum are eager to help when needed and are obviously knowledgeable about the collection.

The American Presidential Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday during peak tourist season months with limited hours in the winter and during holiday times. Guided tours are available by appointment and the museum also offers special programs year round, like lectures by experts on presidential history.

Useful Links:

http://www.1branson.com/branson/american-presidential-museum/277

http://www.presidentialexperience.com/

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