U.S. Naval Torpedo Station

For nearly 20 years the National Archives' Alexandria Federal Records Center was housed in the former U.S. Naval Torpedo station located on Alexandria's waterfront. A view of the Alexandria waterfront including the U.S. Naval Torpedo Station, 1941. (National Archives Identifier 68150512) One day after the end of World War I, the U.S. Navy began construction … Continue reading U.S. Naval Torpedo Station

Protecting the National Archives

When architect John Russell Pope was designing the National Archives Building, he included numerous symbolic elements to convey the ideas of protection. Around the building are swords, shields, and spear-topped gates to remind the public of the significance and importance of protecting the building’s contents. He also included a granite moat surrounding the building.  Constitution … Continue reading Protecting the National Archives

U.S. Servicemembers at the 1984 Olympic Games

As the 2024 Summer Olympics approaches, we're having an #ArchivesHashtagParty: #ArchivesGoForGold! Join us on Friday, July 12, 2024, to celebrate all achievers, from Olympic champions to unsung heroes. Use #ArchivesGoForGold and tag @USNatArchives on Instagram and X. The 2024 Summer Olympics is taking place from July 26 to August 11, 2024, in Paris, France. Today’s … Continue reading U.S. Servicemembers at the 1984 Olympic Games

July 4, 1951: Celebrating America’s Demisemiseptcentennial

As we look forward to the upcoming 250th anniversary of our nation in 2026, we’re looking back at the 175th anniversary celebration in 1951. For more information on July 4 and the National Archives, visit our website.  On July 4, 1951, the United States celebrated its demisemiseptcentennial—the 175th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration … Continue reading July 4, 1951: Celebrating America’s Demisemiseptcentennial