National Archives Hosts Space-Themed Family Sleepover Event
By Jenna Edwards | National Archives News
WASHINGTON, February 4, 2025 - More than 100 guests from as far as New Hampshire poured into the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, for a fun and historic space-themed sleepover during the first weekend in February.
It was the third National Archives Sleepover hosted by Dr. Colleen Shogan since her swearing-in as Archivist of the United States in May 2023.
Children asked thoughtful questions about National Archives holdings and our nation’s founding charters. Actress Mary Ann Jung portrayed astronaut Sally Ride and highlighted the NASA records in our collection.
NASA astronaut Sally Ride interpreter Mary Ann Jung in the McGowan Theater during the space themed National Archives Sleepover on February 1, 2024. (NARA Photo by Susana Raab)
Other activities included arts and crafts and the opportunity to sign a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence.
“I am a direct descendant of John Adams, and I signed right below his name,” said guest Gwen Goggin, age 14. Her family set up their sleeping bags directly in front of the Declaration of Independence.
The National Archives has hosted sleepovers since 2014. Children between the ages of 8 and 12 and their chaperones experience the rare opportunity to sleep at the National Archives beside the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. They can also choose to watch National Treasure in the William G. McGowan Theater. The following morning, they are treated to a pancake breakfast served by the Archivist of the United States.
“We brought mattress pads, thankfully. It was a cool experience to see National Treasure at the National Archives and to hear the cacophony of sleepy noises in the Rotunda,” said guest Chris, whose daughter, Sierra, age 8, enthusiastically urged our staff to make chocolate chip pancake sandwiches.
Guests unpack their gear in the National Archives Rotunda during the sleepover on February 1, 2024. (NARA Photo by Susana Raab)
Many visited the National Archives store, as well the David M. Rubinstein Gallery to see the 1297 Magna Carta on display, before departing at 9 a.m.
“I am here celebrating my ninth birthday,” said guest Maddie, “And did you know the Magna Carta was written in Latin?”
“I am a librarian,” said guest Kate, who traveled to the National Archives Sleepover from New Hampshire with her daughter, Elizabeth, age 11. “So for me, being at the National Archives is like visiting Disneyland."
For more information and to register for future sleepovers, visit www.archivesfoundation.org/sleepover. Questions about the event should be directed to info@archivesfoundation.org.
This National Archives Sleepover is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation.