It has been over 100 years since the tragedy of the Titanic sinking took place. Titanic. The Exhibition remembers the passengers of various classes, families and crew through this powerful experience. The exhibit takes place at the National Harbor in Maryland.
From the moment you enter the exhibit you feel like you’re embarking on a ship with a photo op of a ramp leading into the exhibit. Armed with the audio guide, the experience starts by showing the construction ship, details on the shipbuilders and masterminds.
There was also various press and advertising memorabilia such as old pamphlets, postcards and even a cigarette tin with an image of the Titanic on it. Actual objects from the Titanic such as a life jacket and an original list of first class passengers and the shoe of a small child who survived.
Various passengers were highlighted throughout the exhibit, even people who are notable characters in the film. For example, William Murdoch who was portrayed as a villain in the film was actually a hero in Titanic’s history. Because of his heroic efforts, he was responsible for saving 80% of the men who survived.
An interesting part of the exhibit was seeing life-sized replicas of sleeping quarters of different classes in the ship. First and third classes were not allowed to mingle onboard. Their living and dining quarters were also separated and in very different conditions.
Third class slept four people in a room with two bunk beds. It had mattresses, blankets, pillows and a sink to “wash up” in the room. There were communal dining rooms and bathrooms for third class passengers. It didn’t have the space or any of the luxurious accommodation that first class had.
On the other hand, the sleeping, living and dining quarters for first class passengers were extravagant, even for today’s standards. The detail and space of first class rooms were higher quality and just better living conditions overall while aboard the ship. Even the entrance for first class passengers was elegant and ornate.
One of the most heartbreaking parts of the exhibit was seeing all the names of passengers who perished or who’s lives were affected by this tragedy. Seeing all of those names was emotionally moving.
At the end of the experience, guests can grab a memento from the exhibit’s gift shop. Adult tickets start at $33.50, all ages are welcome and children under 4-years-old enter free of charge
This experience is multi-level and has so many layers. There are so many emotions as you walk through each room and listen to each unforgettable story. We left the museum on a somber note, both thinking about the lives lost and being grateful for our own.