Welcome to Drum Barracks

Located in Wilmington, California, Drum Barracks Civil War Museum is housed in the last remaining original wooden building of the 22 structures built as a military post during the Civil War in the Los Angeles area. Drum Barracks, named after Lt. Col. Richard Coulter Drum, Adjutant General of the Department of the Pacific in San Francisco, served as the Union Army headquarters for Southern California and the Arizona Territory from 1861-1871. Please enjoy exploring our past and our present.

Restoration Done Right

In 2012 the Drum Barracks celebrated its Sesquicentennial. The last remaining wood structure of the Drum Barracks has been standing for one hundred and fifty years and looks incredible. With only three major restoration projects over thirty years, the building would be recognizable to those soldiers who were stationed here during the Civil War.  A new temporary exhibition “Restoration Done Right” highlights nearly 100 photos of the Drum Barracks and is a special "Thank You" to the City of Los Angeles for its commitment, dedication, and continuing support.<...

Blue Star Museums

The Drum Barracks has joined in the effort to support active duty military personnel by offering them and their families free entrance from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Read More: Blue Star Families