The General George Patton Museum (formerly the Patton Museum of Cavalry and Armor) was established to preserve historical material, enhance the training of Armor soldiers and for public exhibit and research. The Museum is administered by the U.S. Army Armor Center, Fort Knox, and is one of the largest in the U.S. Army Museum System.
The original museum was officially dedicated on May 30th, 1949 by Beatrice Patton, the widow of the general. The present building was constructed between 1972 and 1992 without cost of the U.S. Government by the Patton Museum Foundation, Inc. with funds donated by thousands of individuals and organizations from around the world.
on May 30, 1949.
The museum complex consists of the Patton, WW1, WW2 and Post World War Galleries as well as a Special Exhibit area, The Emert L. Davis Memorial Library, outdoor static displays and the Armor Memorial Park. It is adjacent to Keyes Park, which contains a covered picnic facility, restrooms and children’s playground. The General George Patton Museum contains the largest collection of Patton artifacts in the world, including personal items used by General Patton throughout his life.
The General George Patton Museum is entering a new phase of development, in order to preserve the gift of leadership and courage demonstrated by all those who have served in the Armor branch through the years.
The General George Patton Museum hosts over 125,000 visitors from the local community, Kentucky, the United States and internationally. In addition, The General George Patton Museum serves as the focal point for historical training of all Armor soldiers at Fort Knox.
The Armor Memorial Park
The United States Army Armor Center Memorial Park is dedicated to the soldiers who fought with Armor in wars of the Twentieth Century. It commemorates organizations from the U.S. Army that are recognized in the official Army Order of Battle and served in a combat theater. Organizations may be of any branch of service, since Armor is the combined arms team.
Commemorative structures with plaques are arranged in a random pattern along a serpentine walkway beginning at the Park entrance. Except for divisions, no groupings or hierarchy of units exists, each having served with distinction. There is no first. There is no last.