University News
WIU History Department to Host Living History Event Oct. 12-13
October 9, 2023
MACOMB, IL - - "Keep Calm and Carry On" - The Western Illinois University History Department brings a professional historical group of 10 World War II reenactors to showcase a popular example of public, or hands-on history, "Living History" from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Thursday-Friday, Oct. 12-13 on the Macomb campus between the Western Campus Recreation Center and Morgan Hall.
"This is the first time this kind of free and open to the community event has come to Western," WIU History Chair Time Roberts said. "Anyone interested in learning about the past outside of a classroom will find this a great experience."
The public is invited to learn about the history of World War II through dialogue and authentic equipment soldiers used during the war. The reenactors will be representing five countries that fought in WWII: America, Britain, Germany, Russia, and Finland.
Western has a tradition of showcasing military history. In partnership with WIU's Department of Military Science, the WIU History Department teaches military history to future U.S. Army officers. The Living History exhibit is an opportunity to get the public involved in learning military history, and visitors can also get perspective on the reenactors' cultural backgrounds such as how and why soldiers fought. Current WIU History students are preparing interpretive signs that will provide context for visitors' experience.
WIU alumnus Adam Bednar is the leader of the reenacting group and serves as Unit Commander for the WWII Historical Re-enactment Society, Inc. a non-profit organization composed of over 1,200 members aimed at educating the public about WWII.
The exhibit will take place outdoors, rain or shine. Tents will be available for visitors to stand under in the case of rain. For more information, including nearby parking, contact Roberts at tm-roberts@wiu.edu or (309) 298-1053.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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