On October 25th, 2022 DVAG Members were treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library on Frankford Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia. The Museum has recently relocated itself there from its previous location on Griscom Street a few miles away.
Upon our arrival at the GAR Museum, were were greeted by a cadre of the Museum’s long time volunteers. The GAR Museum is run by an extremely dedicated group of long-time volunteers who greeted us with cheerfulness and and enthusiasm. We were led on a tour of the space primarily by Herb Kaufman and Walt Lafty, both were incredibly passionate and knowledgeable.
We were treated to glimpse at a varied collection of Civil War era documents and objects. Including a variety of objects that were known to have stopped bullets on the battlefield, for example and the taxidermy head of General Meade’s horse. Mr. Kaufman went so far as to bring out a cut of bloodied cloth from the pillow that the assassinated President Lincoln’s head laid on after his shooting by John Wilkes Booth.
Our tour was followed by pizza and informal discussion with the other volunteers on site, including the President of the organization, Joe Perry. Thanks for everyone who could come! And thanks to the GAR Museum for hosting.
Post by Alex Palma, Vice Chair
Delaware Valley Archivists Group 