Atomic Heritage Foundation

The Atomic Heritage Foundation (AHF) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2002 by Cynthia Kelly with a mission to preserve and interpret the history of the Manhattan Project and the Atomic Age, as well as its legacy. The Foundation is dedicated to providing the public with a better understanding of the past, while also addressing scientific, technical, political, social, and ethical issues of the 21st century[1][2].

Mission and Focus

AHF focuses on the history and veterans of the Manhattan Project and the Atomic Age. It works collaboratively with Congress, the Department of Energy, the National Park Service, state and local governments, and various nonprofit organizations. The aim is to preserve and interpret historic sites and develop educational materials for veterans, teachers, and the general public[1].

Projects and Initiatives

• Manhattan Project National Historical Park: AHF collaborates with several organizations to urge Congress to establish a Manhattan Project National Historical Park. This effort was supported by bills introduced in 2013 by Senators Maria Cantwell and Lamar Alexander, and Representatives Doc Hastings, Ben Ray Lujan, and Chuck Fleischmann[1].
• Museum Exhibits: AHF has created several museum exhibits, including the "Race for Atomic Power" exhibit at Idaho Falls, featuring the Experimental Breeder Reactor I (EBR-I), and exhibits at the Hanford Site focusing on the B Reactor, a crucial component of the Manhattan Project[1].
• Educational Resources: AHF also develops educational materials and offers firsthand accounts from Manhattan Project veterans, allowing the public to learn about the history and significance of the project[3].

Partnerships and Legacy

In June 2019, an agreement was signed with the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, which now stewards the AHF's website and physical collections. This partnership ensures the continued preservation and interpretation of atomic history through combined efforts[1].

Grants and Funding

The MacArthur Foundation has supported AHF with grants totaling $350,000 between 2007 and 2009. These grants were used to support a symposium on nuclear weapons and initiatives related to nuclear disarmament[4].

Conclusion

The Atomic Heritage Foundation plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the history of the Atomic Age, educating the public about its significance, and promoting a deeper understanding of the scientific and ethical issues that arise from this period.