History, Heroes, and Treasures: Sleepover at the National Archives

For the first time ever, the National Archives is offering families and friends the chance to spend the night with “History, Heroes, and Treasure.” On January 25, 2014, meet author Brad Meltzer, who will set you on your way for an evening of historical missions and discovery. Journey through various activities and stations highlighting key moments through history. Along the way, meet journalist and author Cokie Roberts, and interact with historical characters Abraham Lincoln, Amelia Earhart, and Phillis Wheatley. Wrap up the evening with a selection of Oscar-nominated short films in the McGowan Theater before heading to the Rotunda for the sleepover. You will receive the first two books in Brad Meltzer’s brand new children’s series, I am Abraham Lincoln and I am Amelia Earhart, and have the opportunity to have them signed by the author! Written by Meltzer and illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos, each book tells the real-life story of an ordinary person who’s changed the world. Throughout the evening, you will have the chance to engage with National Archives documents in fun and exciting ways: decode Civil War ciphers, write a letter to the President, dress up in period clothing, learn how to write with a quill pen, play with historic toys and games from our patent collection, and so much more! On Sunday morning, enjoy breakfast and put your new-found knowledge to the test with Archives trivia. You’ll also be able to taste history with a special demonstration of how hot chocolate was made in colonial times, using American Heritage Chocolate. This event is open to children ages 8-12, accompanied by an adult.