World War II exhibit to open at Des Plaines History Center
The year 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, and the Des Plaines History Center has been combing through its archives for objects and photos to include in its upcoming exhibit, "World War II: Des Plaines and the War against Fascism."
"There are many stories to be told about military service, work on the home front, and efforts to memorialize the sacrifices of so many men and women," said Philip Mohr, History Center curator. "We will feature some specific Des Plaines stories in each of these three categories."
The exhibit, which will open at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, will transport viewers back to a time when it was common to have relatives and neighbors leave home determined to defend their country and make a difference in the world. All residents are invited to visit the display and stay for the February Coffee Talk, "World War II and Des Plaines on the Home Front," which will immediately follow the exhibit opening from 7-8 p.m.
Mohr will deliver the Coffee Talk and speak about how the war changed home life and industry in Des Plaines. He will also present artifacts from the war donated by Des Plaines men and women. Light refreshments will be served all evening. A $3 donation is suggested for those who attend the Coffee Talk.
Several other war-related events and activities have been scheduled throughout the year. Homeschool families are invited to attend "War Factories in Des Plaines," from 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the History Center. The program is designed for children ages 5-12 and includes an educational and creative hands-on activity.
In addition, the History Center's blog and Object of the Month posts will concentrate on wartime information and items, such as newsletters from Benjamin Electric, a Des Plaines factory that supported the war effort; a Marine uniform that belonged to Des Plaines resident Louise Huck; a list of the 34 Des Plaines servicemen who perished in World War II; and postwar correspondence from German POWs that were held at Camp Pine in Des Plaines.
To further examine the war experience, the History Center's book discussion group will focus on four books. Art Spiegelman's "Maus," which is published in comic-book format, relates the chilling story of a Holocaust survivor. The author combines history and art in this graphic novel to cover ground that is indescribable. "Maus" is the first book of a two-volume set that was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1992. The book will be discussed from 6-7 p.m. on March 18 at the History Center.
The other books the group will review are "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand (May 20), "Code Talker" by Chester Nez (July 15), and "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut (Sept. 16).
When online, viewers are invited to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and become a member to receive updates, bulletins and newsletters. Community support and donations keep the History Center operating.
Mohr is thrilled to shine a spotlight on what life was like during the war years.
"Take some time to consider the enormous effort made in repelling the danger of fascism in Europe and the Pacific," he said. "We hope that you come to the History Center and visit other local venues for 2015 programs."
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