The Star-Spangled Banner
http://web8.si.edu/nmah/htdocs/ssb-old/2_home/fs2.html
“At the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, we are engaged in a significant effort to preserve this icon, which has been endangered by time, and exposure to pollution and the elements.”
As another link from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History website, The Star-Spangled Banner Preservation Project is “saving an American treasure--the flag that inspired our national anthem.” Included in this site is the Star-Spangled Banner's origins and history, an area addressing the flag's symbolism, the conservation team's progress, and “educational offerings.” In the Educator Information section one can find ideas and materials to supplement and expand curriculum focusing on the Star-Spangled Banner, the War of 1812, and various other American historical moments.

You Be The Historian
http://americanhistory.si.edu/kids/springer/
“Historians study the everyday lives of people who lived in the past by looking at clues: the objects and documents that people left behind and that have somehow survived… See if you can figure out what life was like 200 years ago for Thomas and Elizabeth Springer's family in New Castle, Delaware.”
Part of the “Hands on History Room” of the Smithsonian Institute, this interactive simulation allows students to look at historical artifacts and try to “Be the Historian.” This particular activity takes artifacts from the 17th century family of Thomas and Elizabeth Springer in New Castle, Delaware and asks the students to try and figure out what they are and what they were used for. After playing the part of historical detective, examining the artifacts and making their conclusions, students can compare their findings with those of actual historians. This simulation is fun and helps students see what kind of thought and analysis goes into historical research. (BR)