During the First World War, Newport News became a crucial military port, transporting men, weapons, and supplies to Europe.
Answering America’s Call: Newport News in World War I will look at the stories of those individuals who served locally, passed through the port, or lived on the Peninsula and how Newport News answered America’s call to arms.
Members are invited to enjoy a light brunch reception to meet our community partners, partake in family-friendly themed games, talk with curators, and get an up-close look with our Mariners’ Collection Highlight!
RSVP by May 11
Mobile Tour & Exhibition
Front Lawn
We invite you to bring your own WWI and WWII-related photographs! The Library of Virginia will scan your photos and add them to the Virginia Profiles of Honor project, preserving your images and stories for generations.
Huntington Room
Learn more about how to discover your own family history through conversations with some of Hampton Roads’ finest genealogists.
Book Signing 9 AM – Noon
Huntington Room
Lecture 1 PM
Main Lobby
Presented by Author Dr. Lynn Rainville
Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Sweet Briar College
Dr. Rainville will explore the role of Virginians in World War I: fighting overseas, gathering supplies and raising funds, planting Victory Gardens, providing medical care, and commemorating those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Huntington Room
Presented by Marc Nucup, Curator
Reichsdienstflagge from the North German Lloyd cargo ship SS Mark. The flag, preserved by Captain Ernst Loewe while imprisoned in the United States, serves as a microcosm of the merchant maritime experience in World War I.
Throughout the Great War, the Boy Scouts played a critical role in collecting supplies for deployed servicemen and women.
Please share in this tradition at the Museum on May 19 by donating items for those serving overseas.
Special thanks to our exhibition sponsors:
