If your crazy great-aunt was given free rein to open up a museum, it might look something like this.  The DAR Museum is a quiet mish-mash of desing, architecture and odd collections that either appeals to you or repels you completely.  I loved exploring the quirky halls and, on a cold October morning, did not run into a single other visitor.

As the name suggests, this museum was created by the DAR, a membership organization of women of lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. Founded in 1890, they currently have 168,000 members, with 3,000 local U.S. chapters, as well as international ones.

The rambling building has 31 period rooms (most from the early 1800s) on three meandering floor, each decorated by State chapters. Peeking into the parlors, libraries, and bedchambers of wealthy 19^th century families make you feel as though you’re walking through a giant dollhouse.

The first floor has a small museum of folk art and Americana and a stunning library which contains one of the largest genealogical research centers in the United States. The small gift shop has period reproduction teapots and other decorative items, as well as period quilt and cross-stitch patterns.

There are smaller quirky collections hidden in the building’s nooks and crannies.  Look for the collection of Toby Jugs, named after “Toby Fillpot,” who reportedly drank 2,000 gallons of beer from a brown jug before he died in 1761.

For Kids: Kids who like dollhouses will love this quirky museum. There is a small hands-on playroom outside the New Hampshire’s period room, a recreation of a children’s attic. The museum also has the following children’s programs: Colonial Adventure (ages 5-7) every 1^st and 3^rd Saturdays of the month Sept-May; and Fun Family Saturday every 3^rd Saturday Sept-June.

1776 D Street, NW

(202)628-1776

Free Admission

Hours

Mon-Fri 8:30 am – 4 pm

Sat 9 am – 5 pm

Closed for Federal holidays.

http://www.dar.org/museum