Lagos State Records And Archive Bureau(LASRAB)
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. 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.
