Permanent Exhibitions
Global Symphony
Global Symphony is an unparalleled multi-media installation highlighting the world of CDC and public health. Spanning 100 feet in length, the Global Symphony is more than just pleasing to the eye. Public health messages are communicated through intriguing narratives alternated with visual vignettes. The installation serves as an introduction to CDC and public health for all visitors.
Currently, the Global Symphony features three, three-minute stories that describe in depth CDC’s contributions to the elimination of polio, the investigation of Legionnaire’s disease, and the battle to stem the rise of obesity in the United States. The stories are complemented by a wide range of media pieces on public health topics - from HIV/AIDS to worker safety.
The Messengers
The Messengers sculpture is a large-scale serpentine stone sculpture by renowned artist Lameck Bonjisi of Zimbabwe, who died of AIDS in 2003. The Messengers is an example of Shona sculpture, reflecting traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean culture. The intention of the artist was to honor his ancestors and to represent the strength of families. CDC has chosen the work as a symbol of this facility’s mission – to educate all who visit about the interplay of public health, culture, and community.
The Story of CDC
The Story of CDC traces the origins and early history of CDC through its expansion into an agency of public health programs emphasizing prevention. The story is told through documents, photographs and objects from the CDC Collection. Highlights include an early 20th century quarantine sign, a wooden intelligence test, Dr. Joseph Mountin’s microscope, an iron lung, QUAC sticks used during the Biafra famine, a ped-o-jet used in the campaign to eradicate smallpox, and many more fascinating items and stories. Currently covering the roots of CDC through 1976, the exhibit will continue to grow as subsequent decades are explored.