We’re excited to announce a new rotating exhibition series at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC. Opening the Vault, which opened on May 7, 2025, highlights artifacts and objects from landmark moments in American history.  

Now on display is General George Washington’s signed Oath of Allegiance to the United States—on display for the first time since 2001!—and other remarkable treasures.

Featured Document Display

Victory in World War II Day was commemorated on May 8, 2025.

A formal instrument of surrender was signed on May 8, 1945, at Berlin to ensure that the war in Europe ended on all fronts. The documents were written in English, Russian, and German. 

The “Act of Military Surrender” and the “Kapitulationserklaerung” will be on display at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, through June 11, 2025.

Jubilant American soldiers, sailors, and civilians celebrating Germany's unconditional surrender in London, England, May 7, 1945. NAID 531280. View in Catalog