Explore the U.S. Naval Academy Museum and Chapel
The U.S. Naval Academy Museum preserves artifacts and memorabilia relating not only to the academy but to important figures and engagements in America's naval history. Along with medals, uniforms, and personal items are artifacts from historically significant events. These include the table on which the surrender was signed that ended World War II, along with the flag that flew at the signing on the deck of the USS Missouri.
An entire room is dedicated to ship models, remarkable for the fact that each model was made at the same time that the ship itself was being constructed. Some date as early as the mid-1600s, and several are the only record remaining of the ship's construction and features. The collection of ships' instruments is equally impressive, as are smaller exhibits, such as the painstakingly crafted examples of art created by prisoners on board naval ships. The museum is free.
The Chapel, which was an important feature leading to the Academy's designation as a national Historic Landmark, is notable for its striking stained-glass windows filled with symbolism of the high ideals of the service and others commemorating naval heroes. In the crypt, is the elaborate tomb of John Paul Jones. A visit to the Academy should begin at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center, where you can join a guided tour or watch the 13-minute film, The Call to Serve.
Official site: https://www.usna.edu/Museum/index.php
Address: 118 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland
Phone: 410-293-2108
Entrance fee: free
Google rating: 4.8/5.0
