About Us

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 The National Civil War Museum

Preserving America’s Story. Honoring Kentucky’s Legacy. Inspiring Future Generations.

The National Civil War Museum in Bardstown, Kentucky stands as one of the nation’s most significant institutions dedicated to the Western Theater of the American Civil War. Our mission is to preserve, interpret, and share the stories, artifacts, and human experiences that shaped the conflict and the nation that emerged from it.

Located on historic Museum Row, our museum campus brings together multiple cultural and historical sites, each offering a unique perspective on America’s past. Through immersive exhibits, authentic artifacts, and educational programming, we strive to deepen public understanding of the Civil War and its lasting impact on the United States.

Our Mission

The National Civil War Museum is committed to:

• Preservation of rare Civil War artifacts, documents, and personal items
• Education through exhibits, programs, and historical interpretation
• Representation of diverse voices, including women, civilians, and soldiers
• Community engagement through partnerships, events, and outreach
• Historical accuracy in all exhibits and storytelling

We believe that understanding the Civil War is essential to understanding America—its struggles, its progress, and its ongoing pursuit of unity and equality.

A Multi‑Site Historical Campus

As part of our expanded mission and rebranding, The National Civil War Museum encompasses several historically significant attractions:

The National Civil War Museum – Western Theater Collection

One of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Western Theater artifacts in the United States. Exhibits highlight Kentucky’s pivotal role in the war, major campaigns, military strategy, and the lived experiences of soldiers and civilians.

The Women’s Civil War Museum

The only museum in the nation dedicated exclusively to the contributions of women during the Civil War. This museum honors the nurses, abolitionists, spies, writers, and trailblazers who shaped the course of history.

The General Hal Moore Military Museum

Honoring Bardstown native Lt. General Hal Moore, this museum explores American military history from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts. Exhibits feature rare artifacts, uniforms, weaponry, and personal items from General Moore’s life and service.

Old Bardstown Village

A preserved 18th–19th century frontier settlement featuring ten original log structures. The village offers a vivid look at early Kentucky life and the roots of the region’s cultural heritage.

Our History

Founded to preserve the memory of the Civil War’s Western Theater, the museum has grown into a nationally recognized institution. Over the years, our collections have expanded, our exhibits have evolved, and our mission has broadened to include the stories of women, military leaders, and early Kentucky settlers.

Today, as The National Civil War Museum, we continue to honor the past while embracing a future focused on education, preservation, and community engagement.

Our Commitment to Education

We proudly serve:

• Students and educators
• Researchers and historians
• Families and tourists
• Veterans and military organizations
• Community groups and civic organizations

Through guided tours, educational programs, special events, and partnerships, we aim to make history accessible, engaging, and meaningful for all ages.

Why Bardstown?

Bardstown, Kentucky—one of America’s most historic small towns—played a vital role in the Civil War and the development of the Western frontier. Our location on Museum Row places us at the heart of a community rich in heritage, culture, and storytelling.

Visitors can explore our museums alongside other Bardstown attractions, making it a destination for history lovers, families, and travelers from across the country.

Join Us in Preserving History

The National Civil War Museum relies on the support of visitors, members, donors, and community partners. Your involvement helps us:

• Preserve irreplaceable artifacts
• Expand educational programming
• Maintain historic buildings
• Share Kentucky’s story with future generations

Together, we keep history alive.