Judith G.
Yelp
What a powerful testament to a painful and horrific time in our history! Yes, much of the information here is hard to emotionally digest, and should be. But the museum does a good job of making that journey possible and awe inspiring. 1) It is an architecturally beautiful and innovative building; 2) The exhibits are arranged well. The helpful staff gives you a user-friendly brochure with suggestions on a step-by-step process for viewing the exhibits; 3) it brings the reality to life. In particular, I was emotionally moved at the slave house -- with showed the inhumanity of slavery in a way no words could have. And at one of the interactive videos, which gave you choices to make, in your runaway journey, with the results of your decisions (I was sent back to slavery, because I didn't go all the way to Canada). 4) It is thoroughly researched, with fascinating explanations I didn't know about that time in history. 5) Just when it gets overwhelming, some bright moments show through -- important people who stood up for justice, for example. And the exhibit about actions we still need to take 6) The eternal flame outside on the balcony offers a testament to justice. But also an opportunity to see a fantastic view of Cincinnati, from The Banks to the riverfront. 7) The movies were well-produced, with compelling stories and good information.
I wished it was more experiential, as that's the most recent trend of museums -- the exhibits here were either written placards or videos. But over all, it was a somber but awe-inspiring education that resonated powerfully with me -- so much so that I was too emotionally spent to view every exhibit & see every movie. But I will be back.