This was a disappointing visit as there is not really a Panama Canal Museum. It was not what I expected. There is a short hallway with changing exhibits that highlight some aspect of the Canal Zone or the American presence in Panama. This consisted of several display cases of items and an interactive information screen. I asked several people about the “museum” and someone finally explained that most of the relics, photos, etc are in a warehouse somewhere. On the third floor, Latin American part of the library there is a wall of books, yearbooks, etc from Panama Canal Zone. But that is it. Having lived in the Canal Zone, this was disappointing and sad.

Panama canal is known as a major infrastructure project that has benefited millions of people for many many years by bringing the world closer. There is no doubt that the work was on a phenomenal scale. What is unique about this museum is it nicely captures both importance and enormity of the task! with pictures, news items, letters and other instruments of history carefully preserved and are on display. It not only satisfies curiosity of a casual visitor but also invites someone to get more interested in this and such similar projects elsewhere. Entire museum is well lit, well arranged and very conveniently displayed.

The Panama Canal Collection at the University of Florida displays canal construction memorabilia. The Albert H. Nahmad Panama Canal Gallery brings the everyday experiences of Zonians to life through engaging displays and digital collections, ensuring that personal memories can be shared with families and friends. The Gallery is a distinctive, publicly accessible showcase for materials from the University of Florida, dedicated to highlighting the history of the Panama Canal, with emphasis on the Canal Zone and itspeople. The hours for the Gallery are 8am-7pm Monday-Thursday, 8am-5pm Fridayand 2-10pm Sunday during the Spring and Fall semesters.