Virtual Tour of the Museum
Go on a virtual tour of our museum through Google Arts and Culture. See exhibits and artifacts.
Museum
Learn about the Civil War, Lincoln's presidency and his assassination.
More production info
Explore exhibits on Lincoln’s presidency, Civil War milestones and the assassination conspiracy led by John Wilkes Booth.
In our museum, you can view exhibits that follow Abraham Lincoln from the beginning of his presidency to the moments leading up to his assassination. Learn about his life in the White House, the struggles he faced during the Civil War, and his meetings with abolitionist Frederick Douglass. You will also learn about actor John Wilkes Booth, the roots of his hatred toward Lincoln, and the group of people who joined his conspiracy to dismantle the United States government.
The museum features artifacts related to the assassination, including the weapons Booth used.
After visiting the museum, you can continue the story in our Aftermath Exhibits to learn about the fate of the conspirators and how the nation mourned Lincoln's death.
tips for your visit
- Museum is self-guided.
- Some entries do not include the museum.
- Audioguides are available for $5.
- A museum visit takes ~30 minutes.
Audioguide
Enhance Your Visit
This pre-recorded audio tour provides additional content and historical background. Available in both youth and adult versions. $5 each. You will be prompted to add an audioguide on when you reserve tickets.
Story Card
With our story cards, you can follow the story of real people from 1865 and learn what life in Washington was like during the Civil War. The cards are free. Ask for them at the box office when you arrive.
Artifacts
See artifacts that played a part in the assassination conspiracy on display in our museum.
Deringer
John Wilkes Booth killed Lincoln with this small, single-shot pistol. Why would Booth use a weapon with only one bullet?
Lincoln’s Clothes
What did Lincoln wear to Ford’s Theatre the night John Wilkes Booth murdered him? See his clothes, including the special message sewn inside his overcoat.
Lincoln’s Life Masks
The presidency is known to age a person quickly. How did the stresses of the presidency and Civil War change Lincoln’s appearance?
Lincoln’s Pillow
A pillow from Willie Clark’s bed at the Petersen House is now a priceless relic. On it, you can see the blood of President Abraham Lincoln.
Material Evidence: John Wilkes Booth
When U.S. Army soldiers captured and killed John Wilkes Booth, they emptied his pockets. What was Booth carrying during his 12 days on the run?
Material Evidence: Dr. Mudd
Dr. Samuel Mudd claimed not to recognize the two men who appeared at his home the morning of April 15, 1865. See the pieces of evidence that disproved his story and sent him to prison.
From the Blog
Plan your Visit
Tips to help you plan your visit.
