US Army Quartermaster Museum — Attraction in Virginia

This is a lovely museum, with something for every military history enthusiast, from every era of the United States' history. There were beautiful paintings, many important artifacts, a surprising number of vehicles and the interpretation was respectful and detailed. My favorite exhibits were General Eisenhower's 'Circus Wagon' from the Second World War and a painting of General Grant with his quartermasters at City Point, though the DUKW amphibious vehicle from the D-Day campaign and the Congressional model presented during plans for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were also meaningful and inspiring. You really don't grasp the size of the DUKW until you're just a breath away from it, and I actually felt a chill up my spine as I saw General Patton's Jeep, which is cleverly cordoned off by a double row of jerrie cans. There was even a little grave marker, next to a display of Civil War saddles, in memory of an Army horse called Apple Jack, which I found to be very sweet, and I liked that they showed how Army mules got their own gas masks.

The hastily constructed catafalque, built for President Eisenhower's funeral, is displayed reverently near beautiful stained glass windows, with Jefferson Davis' funeral cortege nearby, but what really struck me was a little canvas personal effects bag, such as the Graves Commission used to return a fallen soldier's few things to their family. People who feel emotional at such sights would do well to bring a handkerchief.

I was glad I visited without my daughter, (age three,) as some of the dioramas might prove unbearably tempting for younger children to touch (strictly prohibited!) and there was a delightful amount of reading, with signs for each exhibit, that I loved, but which a younger or less interested person might not enjoy as much. The Women's Museum next door is equally good and of special emotional significance for women, but I loved them both. Anyone with a fondness for logistics and the lesser-known side of military history will enjoy learning about the Quartermasters.

The gift shop was also surprisingly nice, with several items priced low enough that a child visiting on a school field trip could buy a present for someone if they wanted to. (That's something I look for in gift shops, because nobody likes to take children to places that charge six weeks' allowance for the cheapest thing.) Overall, I'd say this museum is an excellent choice for older children and adults with an interest in military history...

I visited the Sword and Key Gift Shop inside of the Museum. I noticed an item they had but it had to be ordered. The Manager, Paulette Bordwell was very helpful. As soon as the item came in she notified me by text. Wonderful service from her, her staff and a lot of nice things. Not just limited to Quartermaster items. They carry puzzles, stuff animals, lapel pins, posters, you name it and if they don't have it in stock or carry it they will check for you. Go by and check it out, browse and see the amazing things they have. Then afterwards check out the Museum for what was, what is and what is going to be. They are always adding new things and currently working on a new exhibit. The US Army Womens Museum is right beside it, they've also added a new edition. The weather has been very cold and you are limited on what to do, go by and check out the Museums...

Phenomenal museum but a little tricky to get to. It’s newly accessible off-post. Just as u pass the main gate… turn right at the light… be on the lookout on right hand side for an access. Follow it around to newly gated off areas. The museum really surprised me how much the Quartermaster’s actually are involved in the support of combat operations!! Be sure to checkout the Pvt. George Watson Medal of Honor citation. Don’t forget also the women’s museum and ordinance museum. Please be sure to sign the books at the entrance (as this new administration is looking to eliminate or minimize the three great museums). I highly recommend this...