Museum Commemorates First World War Centennial

COURT HOUSE — This year marks the centennial of the United States’ involvement in World War I. Considered at the time to be “the war to end all wars,” this war impacted virtually every American, both on the battlefield and at home.
To commemorate this centennial, The Museum has developed an exhibition that showcases not only the war from a serviceperson’s perspective, but also shows the war’s effect on those who kept the home fires burning here in the southernmost end of the state.
As part of “Over Here: The Great War Comes to Cape May County,” many artifacts never before seen by the public will be on display, including memorabilia from Camp Wissahickon. A portion of the exhibit also highlights the story of Wildwood’s Baker sisters whose service as nurses in war torn France was lauded on two continents. The Middle Township World War I flag will be on display. This flag commemorates the service of every man and nurse from the township who went to war and with special commemoration of the men who lost their lives in service to their nation.
This exhibition is one of the most ambitious ever undertaken by The Museum. Its mission is to bring to light the sacrifices of those who served and also show the sacrifices of those who stayed behind.
A portion of the exhibition that gives an overall taste of county life during the war will be available to the public at no charge inside The Museum’s gallery. An amplified look at the effects of the Great War on Cape May County is available as part of The Museum’s paid general tour.
This exhibition runs from April 11 through June 6. A special presentation and lecture by local historian Jeff Hilgert will be offered Sat., May 20. This presentation will bring to life the critical role of the short lived, oft forgotten Camp Wissahickon in Cape May.
For additional information please visit The Museum’s website at www.cmcmuseum.org or call The Museum at 609-465-3535.