The National WWI Museum and Memorial renovated several areas of the Main Gallery and added interactive museum exhibits just in time for Veterans Day. Free admission for veteran’s this weekend Nov. 10 – 12 to celebrate.
“The Main Gallery upgrades opening November 7, as well as the projects that will take place into 2025, are the most expansive changes to the Main Gallery since opening in 2006,” says Dr. Christopher Warren, Vice President of Curatorial Affairs and Chief Curator of the National WWI Museum and Memorial. “Guests will experience upgraded technology and new and interesting narratives from WWI that will create a richer and more immersive experience.”
Some of the renovations that can be seen this Veterans Day weekend include a map-based interactive and large-format media frieze that brings a global perspective to the gallery by showcasing empires, strategic alliances and everyday citizens who would soon be in the midst of catastrophe.
Then there are interactive touch tables that feature unique programming covering aircraft, communications, maritime and uniforms – with the overarching theme of wartime innovations.
There is also a presentation chronicling America’s great mobilization for the war – including Uncle Sam and a heavy emphasis on American patriotism – highlights the mood as Americans joined the war effort in 1917. The gallery also sets the stage for provocative stories of dissent.
A mural and two new interactive displays that highlight the often forgotten, yet integral role of animals in the war effort. For more information, check out the National WWI Museum and Memorial’s website.