Step into the first year of America’s fight for independence through rare documents and artifacts at The Society of the Cincinnati’s annual exhibit. A rich, focused experience for history and adventure seekers in DC.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20–30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily indoor walking within a gallery
Wildlife
History
The Society of the Cincinnati was founded in 1783 by Revolutionary War officers to preserve the ideals and fellowship of the war.
Conservation
The Institute promotes sustainable museum practices, including digital archives and responsible artifact preservation.
The Society of the Cincinnati
Step into the first year of America’s fight for independence through rare documents and artifacts at The Society of the Cincinnati’s annual exhibit. A rich, focused experience for history and adventure seekers in DC.
Society of the Cincinnati, based in Washington, D.C., preserves and presents American Revolutionary history through guided access to Anderson House and the American Revolution Institute. The organization opens Anderson House, a National Historic Landmark, for guided tours that reveal the architecture, original art collections, and institutional archives related to the Society of the Cincinnati and the American Revolution.
Visitors experience docent-led tours of Anderson House that explain the building’s design, decorative arts, and the people associated with its history. The American Revolution Institute operates a dynamic exhibition gallery with a rotating annual theme; current programming focuses on "Revolutionary Beginnings," featuring over 40 rare documents, maps, and artifacts from America’s first year of independence. Exhibition-only admissions provide targeted access to the Institute’s curated displays without a full house tour.
The Society of the Cincinnati offers public programming and interpretive materials intended to deepen understanding of the American Revolution through material culture and primary sources. As steward of a National Historic Landmark and a museum-grade exhibition program, the institution follows professional standards for conservation, curation, and public history presentation. Educational tours and timed admissions accommodate individuals, families, and small groups seeking focused historical experiences in Washington, D.C.
Visitors should consult the Society’s official site for hours, ticketing, special exhibitions, and accessibility information. The Society of the Cincinnati maintains collections and exhibitions that support research, education, and public engagement with the Revolutionary era. Staff and curators coordinate rotating displays, educational events, and research access to preserve and interpret Revolutionary-era materials for visitors today.
National Landmark
Anderson House
Designated National Historic Landmark
Location
Washington, D.C.
Central to national historic sites
Tours Offered
Guided & Exhibition
House tours and gallery access
Featured Items
40+
Rare documents, maps, artifacts
Reserve guided tour tickets or exhibition-only admission online to secure timed access to current exhibitions.
Allow 20-30 Minutes for Viewing
Plan a brief but focused visit; the exhibition is compact but densely packed with rare artifacts.
Combine with Nearby Outdoor Historic Tours
Pair your visit with outdoor explorations of DC’s monuments and Revolutionary War sites for a full-day experience.
Exhibition is Self-Guided
No guided tours included; bring a good history book or download supplemental material for deeper context.
Check for Ticket Availability in Advance
Tickets may sell out or require advance booking, especially during peak tourist seasons in DC.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You’ll stand and walk through the gallery and possibly nearby historic outdoor sites.
Light Backpack or Bag
Carry water, camera, or supplemental reading material conveniently.
Weather-Appropriate Outerwear
DC’s weather can be variable, especially in cooler months when moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.
spring|fall|winter
Notebook or Mobile Device
Useful for taking notes or accessing additional online historical context about the exhibits.