About The Museum
Preserving our nation’s military newspaper and celebrating the commitment and service of Stars & Stripers, our valiant military, and our citizens!
The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library
Located in Bloomfield, Missouri, the designated birthplace of the Stars and Stripes by the US Department of Defense, the Museum collects, documents, celebrates, interprets, and preserves material related to the creation and continuing history of the Stars and Stripes, our nation’s military newspaper.
Through exhibits and programs, The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library offers a unique and important view of some of the most pivotal moments in modern history. The Museum highlights the history of the Stars and Stripes from the very first issue, printed by Union troops in November 1861, through the wars of the 20th century and into modern era.
In our publicly accessible archives, researchers can access our historical collection of the Stars and Stripes and related military history collections.
The Museum receives no government funding for operating expenses and admission is free, therefore we rely heavily on private donations to help pay the bills. Your donation helps us share these stories with future generations.
Our Mission
The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library documents, collects, preserves, and exhibits materials related to the history, work, contents, scope and role of the Stars and Stripes military newspaper from its origins to the present. The Museum and Library seeks to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the Stars and Stripes’ important role in history by preserving, interpreting, and making its archives available to those who are interested in using its resources for research purposes.
Meet Our Team
Our wonderful staff is the secret to the museum and library’s success!
Sheila Porter
Barney
Our Board Members
2024-2025
- Michael Bailey
- Jason Bean
- Melvin Boyers
- Brian Brooks
- Jerry Elder
- Kathy Kiely
- Bruce Loewenberg
- Blair Moran
- Robin Northern
- Mike Penney
- Roger Pleus
- Doug Rose
- Sawyer Smith
- Brian Taylor
- Sue Tippen
- Carlos Vargas
- Wayne Wallingford
Community Benefits
The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library offers many benefits to the community.
Free Admission
Free Guided Tours (When Possible)
Youth Programs
School Tours
Access to Teaching Trunks
Free Library Services
Research Support and Services
Access to Public Archives
Access to Historical Stars & Stripes Newspaper Archives
Special Events
Educational Workshops
Virtual Field Trips