Reservoir Park in Harrisburg's Allison Hill neighborhood holds the National Civil War Museum at One Lincoln Circle. This privately owned, 501c(3) nonprofit was founded to promote the preservation of material culture and sources directly relevant to the American Civil War and the postwar period, especially as they relate to veterans' service organizations such as the Grand Army of the Republic and the United Confederate Veterans. The museum also serves as the National Headquarters for the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.
Former mayor Stephen R. Reed supported its development, which cost $32 million, and the museum opened to the public in 2001. In 2009 it affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, and in 2015 it published a book about U.S. General Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. You can enter the two-story brick building and begin the self-guided tour on the second floor, where the first ten galleries unfold, then continue on the first floor through the last seven galleries and the theater.
Inside you will find a gift shop and a temporary exhibit gallery, alongside museum support. Notice this two-story brick building, set within the grounds of Reservoir Park.