If you've ever wanted to get up close to a vintage SR-71 aircraft and learn its role in our country's military schematics, as well as the story of its construction and specifications, you need to visit Barksdale Global Power Museum. On your visit, you'll discover these seldom-documented stories that will add an even deeper dimension to brave men and women who served in our Air Force during some of the most dangerous moments in our nation's history.
Before there was the internet or computers of any kind, photos and manuscripts joined disciplined engineering practice and mathematics to aid in construction plans for important city buildings. The documented preliminary work that went into the planning and execution of these projects is housed at the Karpeles Manuscript Library. It's not only a history lesson, but a testament to our forefathers' ingenuity and perseverance to establish the landmarks that serve as anchors of Shreveport's history.
Various facets of history all intersect at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum. From artifacts of some of the state's most high-profile figures to pieces from prehistoric life in the area, the dramatic sweep of these collected stories is breathtaking. The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is a Smithsonian affiliate museum and features 18 world renowned dioramas and rotating exhibits. Science, technology, culture and history intertwine here, and the stories that they tell will give you a deeper sense of understanding and appreciation of what the state's founding fathers went through. Admission is always free and the museum is open seven days a week.
If taking a break from your usual scene and expanding your world view sounds like fun, then check out the various collections of art on display at the Meadows Museum of Art. The museum's holdings include pieces that date back to the 1800s as well as pieces by American Impressionist Alfred Maurer, German Expressionist George Grosz, and Texas Regionalist Don Brown. It's a visually captivating trip that's sure to invigorate your senses.
The pages in your old history books come alive at the Pioneer Heritage Center, as true-to-life exhibits portray what life was back between the 1830s and the 19th century. The challenges that the earliest settlers of the area faced are dramatically presented in an amazingly authentic manner that does not only illustrate their plight, but brings that history alive as it connects us to the present day.
From the natural beauty of flowers and other regional foliage to the quest of the Native Americans, you'll see the various artistic essences of these subjects captured in the works on display at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery. Aside from the impressive paintings and photographs, there are various series of speakers and multimedia presentations that tell the stories behind some of these mesmerizing creations.
Nearly every performer who steps out on stage dreams of one day finding fame and fortune. The talented men and women who found themselves in the spotlight of the stage at Shreveport's Municipal Auditorium are all honored at the Stage of Stars and Legends Museum. Thousands of photographs, personal effects and memorabilia are all gathered for visitors to see during one of the many daily guided tours. Behind every star there is a story, and you'll hear them all at the Stage of Stars and Legends Museum.
Undoubtedly the African American culture has had a rightful influence on American society, but to fully appreciate its origin and history, check out the Stephens African American Museum. Through paintings, relics and other items and art works, you'll get a sharply developed picture of the various African American contributions to our development and the importance of continued awareness of this fascinating component of America's story.