National Museum of Health and Medicine

Museum in Silver Spring, Maryland, United States

The National Museum of Health and Medicine (NMHM) is a museum in Silver Spring, Maryland, near Washington, D.C., that is dedicated to the history and practice of medicine with a particular focus on the United States Army.

History

The museum was established in 1862 as the Army Medical Museum during the American Civil War. It was founded by Brigadier General William A. Hammond, the Surgeon General of the United States Army, to collect specimens for research in military medicine and surgery. The museum's collection began with specimens from battlefield injuries and diseases, which were used to study the effects of war on the human body.

Army Medical School

Over the years, the museum's collection expanded to include a wide range of medical artifacts, anatomical specimens, and historical documents. In 1989, the museum was renamed the National Museum of Health and Medicine to reflect its broader mission of promoting public understanding of health and medicine.

Collections

The NMHM houses a vast collection of medical artifacts, including over 25 million objects. These include anatomical specimens, medical instruments, and historical documents. The museum is particularly known for its collection of Civil War medical specimens, which provide insight into the medical practices and challenges of the time.

The museum also holds the Otis Historical Archives, which contain photographs, manuscripts, and other documents related to the history of military medicine. The archives are a valuable resource for researchers and historians.

Exhibits

The NMHM features a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits that explore different aspects of health and medicine. Permanent exhibits include displays on the history of military medicine, the evolution of medical technology, and the role of medicine in society.

National Museum of Health and Medicine

The museum also hosts temporary exhibits that focus on specific topics, such as the impact of infectious diseases, advances in medical imaging, and the history of prosthetics.

Public Programs

The NMHM offers a range of public programs, including lectures, workshops, and educational activities for visitors of all ages. These programs are designed to engage the public with the museum's collections and promote a deeper understanding of health and medicine.

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Med Mus Science Cafe

The museum's "Science Cafe" series features talks by experts in various fields of medicine and science, providing an opportunity for the public to learn about current research and developments in health and medicine.

Location and Access

The National Museum of Health and Medicine is located in Silver Spring, Maryland, and is accessible by public transportation. The museum is near the WMATA Metro system, making it convenient for visitors from the Washington, D.C. area.

WMATA Metro Logo

Related Pages

• Walter Reed Army Medical Center
• Smithsonian Institution
• National Institutes of Health

External Links

• Official website of the National Museum of Health and Medicine