The Museum Resource Center (MRCE) serves as the central curatorial facility for museum collections from National Park Service units across Washington, D.C. and parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. The Museum Resource Center also functions as the offices for the Region 1, National Capital Area (NCA) Museum, Archeology, and Architectural Conservation Programs.

The Museum Resource Center is not open to the public. Access to collections and services is available by appointment only. 

Worn black metal manual typewriter
Collection Storage

Provides secure and stable environmental conditions for museum collections.

NPS staff bend to carefully move a red and blue quilt laid flat on a large board.
Museum Program

Supports preservation and protection of museum collections and exhibits.

Archeologists dig holes and screen dirt for artifacts
Archeology Program

Supports preservation and protection of archeological sites and resources.

Woman in hardhat and gloves applies epoxy to an ornate mantelpiece decoration
Architectural Conservation Program

Supports preservation and protection of historic architecture and structures.

Last updated: March 4, 2022