National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Andersonville National Historic Site h2_Iowa
view map
text size: largest larger normal
printer friendly
Andersonville National Historic Site
National Prisoner of War Museum
Prison-like structure of the POW museum
NPS
Approaching the National Prisoner of War Museum
 

Opened in 1998, the National Prisoner of War Museum tells the story of prisoners of war throughout American History. This facility doubles as the park's visitor center and is the best place to begin a visit.

 

Introductory Films
Two films, shown on the hour and half-hour, provide an excellent introduction to the story of the Andersonville Prison and the experience of American prisoners of war.

"Voices from Andersonville" 
Shown on the hour, this 28 minute film focuses on the history of the Andersonville Prison.

"Echoes of Captivity"
Shown on the half-hour, this 27 minute film is an introduction to the experience of prisoners of war throughout American history.

 

Exhibit Hall
The first exhibit gallery answers the question "What is a POW?" This is followed by exhibit areas exploring the themes of capture, living conditions, news and communications, those who wait, privation, morale and relationships, and escape and freedom.

Throughout the exhibits there are touchable items and exhibit drawers that may be opened to find out more about prisoners of war.

You are exiting the National Park Service website

Thank you for visiting our site.

You will now be redirected to:

We hope your visit was informative and enjoyable.

dyk_deathb4dshr-2

Did You Know?
The words "Death Before Dishonor" appear on a third of the state monuments at Andersonville National Historic Site. This phrase was the motto of the Union Ex-Prisoners of War association, and represents the devotion of Union POWs to their country.
more...

Last Updated: October 02, 2010 at 11:59 MST