Join us at the Muskegon Heritage Museum of Business and Industry for one day each month where we are open free to the public.
This year our overarching theme is commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the end of WWII. Each of these Saturdays will have a different theme to highlight our collection and Muskegon’s contributions to the war effort.
Saturday, May 3rd – The Music That Won the War
Popular music helped keep up morale for soldiers and civilians alike during World War II. Sample some of the sounds of the war effort and learn how Muskegon’s own Brunswick Corporation contributed to the music industry.
Saturday, June 7th – The War that Moved a Nation
World War II ushered in major changes to American society. Labor shortages and new industrial opportunities accelerated the move from farms to factories. Learn about Muskegon’s role in the Second Great Migration and the contribution of African American and Latino workers in re-shaping Muskegon and America’s diverse cultural landscape.
Saturday, July 5th – Stamps, Sugar, and Sacrifice: Rationing During WWII
Ration books and Scrap drives were two highly visible ways that civilians connected to the war effort. Join us to learn about popular ration recipes and share your family’s favorites. You can also try your hand at a scrap sorting challenge and learn about what materials around the home were needed to support the war effort and why.
Saturday, August 2nd- We Can Do It! Women in WWII
Rosie the Riveter is an iconic American Image. It represents the best of America on the Homefront in World War II. Thousands of women across the country and in the Muskegon, area entered the industrial workforce.Their efforts made Michigan the leading producer of war materials. Join us to commemorate the Rosies of Muskegon’s contribution and share your family stories.
Saturday, September 6th – Air Raid Wardens & Blackout Drills: Civil Defense in WWII
Civil Defense committees sprang up around the country to train Americans about how to prevent sabotage and guard against air raids during World War II. Learn about local measures to protect the vital war work in Muskegon County and which factories made up the alert system. Try your hand at enemy plane identification and dive into the regulations for blackouts and fire prevention.
Saturday, October 4th – From Battlefield to Homefront: What Happened When Soldiers Came Home
The country faced an enormous challenge following the successful conclusion of World War II–how to reintegrate returning soldiers into a Post War economy. Learn about how the GI Bill transformed American education, housing and politics.
