The National Cryptologic Museum gives a stay in Annapolis Junction a clear historical focus. Its collection brings together German cipher technology from World War II and the history of American cryptology; tours explore its themes and exhibits from different perspectives. For planning, the main things to consider are visiting hours, tour lengths, and the different offerings at nearby Patuxent Research Refuge.
Visit the National Cryptologic Museum
The museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on the first Saturday of each month, also from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and federal holidays. Check the schedule before your visit. The address is 8290 Colony Seven Road, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701; it is not a mailing address.
Exhibits and the History of Cryptology
The collection includes thousands of artifacts that help preserve the history of the cryptologic profession. These include the German Enigma machine, which was used by the German Army, Navy, and Air Force during World War II. Another exhibit is the Bombe: later versions were used by the United States to decipher German military messages. These two examples illustrate different chapters in the history of cryptology.
The museum library is also part of the institution’s history: it has been in place since the museum opened in 1993. Its interactive database contains photographs of artifacts, as well as unclassified and declassified books and documents on all aspects of cryptology. Thus, the institution’s collection includes images and written materials as well as artifacts.
Tours and Educational Programs
The tours vary in focus and length. The American Cryptologic History Tour uses unique artifacts and stories to explain the roles of people and machines in the history of American cryptology; it lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The Women in Cryptology Tour explores the role of women in the history of American cryptology, from the American Revolution to modern cybersecurity, and lasts 60 minutes. In the Advancing Technology Tour, also 60 minutes long, exhibits and artifacts illustrate the interplay between advances in cryptology and technology. This tour is limited to groups of 6 to 20 people.
The tours are presented by current and former NSA employees. Some groups must schedule in advance. The museum also offers educational programs for class trips for grades 4 through 12, as well as interactive programs for Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts merit badges and pins.
A Look at Local History
The Annapolis & Elkridge Steam Railroad was founded in 1837 and opened in 1840. Its completed route ran eight miles from West Street in the city of Annapolis to Annapolis Junction, where it connected to the B&O line between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The founding and opening mark different milestones: 1837 refers to the founding of the company, while 1840 marks the opening of the route. This railroad history adds another historical perspective to Annapolis Junction.
Nature Nearby
Patuxent Research Refuge is located in Laurel and the wider area around Annapolis Junction. The refuge was established to protect wildlife and natural habitats through research. It covers 13,000 acres of forest, meadows, and wetlands. The two tracts offer different options: the North Tract has 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as a peaceful atmosphere for visitors seeking relaxation. The South Tract has five miles of walking trails and two scenic lakes.
The trail distances refer to different areas and therefore cannot simply be compared as equivalent routes. Activities also vary: hiking, biking, and horseback riding are listed for the North Tract, while the South Tract is described in terms of walking trails and lakes. The South Tract is also in the area around Annapolis Junction.
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