We decided to take our Forester out for the day and this seemed just the place. A hands-on museum designed with the adult in mind is a bit unique and a definite ‘must-experience’. Upon arriving (appointments required), we did feel that perhaps we were at the wrong spot which is funny to say considering the American Flag adorning the side of the building and the large military gun on the lawn. But the place seemed deserted. In a few minutes we were joined by several other people who all seemed to feel the same way we did. There is comfort in numbers. One was brave enough to try the door. It was locked. We all giggled.
 Ministry of Information
Original publicity and propaganda items including the never distributed but now famous 'Keep Calm and Carry On' poster. Most were recycled after the war.
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Promptly at 11am the door opened and a friendly older gentleman greeted us and we were ushered into the entrance. The small room barely fit us, but we stayed there only long enough to have our donation and signed waiver (available online) collected. A slightly larger space next door held seating and we were treated to a short but informative lecture and video. Brochures and audio guides were handed out and then we proceeded at our own pace on a self-guided tour.
Visitors are not only allowed, but also encouraged to handle several of the items on display. All firearms displayed at the Museum have been rendered inoperable and are therefore safe to handle responsibly. Once you start to get over being able to actually touch things, the experience takes on another form. The physical weight of the objects, especially the standard issued weaponry, causes you to rethink the stories and experiences of our fathers/mothers or grandfathers/grandmothers as the case may be.
Artifacts are grouped in logical and interesting arrays by theme, battle, or time frame. You may pass through one area in five minutes only to be held captive for thirty minutes or more at a single cabinet.
Of particular note were the clever subterfuge items developed by the Resistance, the Enigma machines, and personal items own by General Patton, Winston Churchill, Field Marshal Montgomery, and more. The sheer amount of artifacts is both surprising and at some points overwhelming. The audio guides are a true treasure that allow each individual to learn more about the items they are drawn to. Manikins display both civilian clothing of the time and uniforms. While this is not a unique type of display, at this museum they are used to much greater effect. By allowing the public to stand with them, instead of being separated by a pane of glass with the item on a literal pedestal, we feel more immersed in the experience. The actual items worn by famous (and infamous) historical figures displayed on a lifesize figure gives us the notion that these were people we could have known personally. Having the odd awareness of being taller than Montgomery because you are, in a way, standing next to him, is much more impactful than the mere fact of his height.
Recently the Museum has acquired Anne and Margot Frank’s copy of ‘Grimm’s Fairy Tales’ and a complete 1943 MASH unit. These items are being added to an already astounding collection. A future visit is already being planned. Maybe we will see you there!
In keeping with all our other ‘Things To Do’, no adventure is complete until we’ve had something to eat. We didn’t stray far. Zaftig’s Delicatessen in located in Sherwood Plaza between the museum and Rt. 9. Potato pancakes started us off as we perused the menu containing too many tempting choices. Ordering ‘Grandma’s Brisket’ seemed to align perfectly with our vintage and nostalgic day. It did not disappoint.
When You Go
Visits are by appointment only. Email museumofworldwarii@yahoo.com
Visitors are required to arrive with a printed and signed waiver that can be found online here.
Things to Know
The Museum recommends allowing 3 hours to tour their artifacts.
Your donation of $25 per visitor in cash will make the check in process faster.
Fun Facts
The Museum of World War II has been used as a resource for many films including Band of Brothers and Saving Private Ryan.
The Museum will be featured in a new National Geographic book this October entitled 'The Secret History of World War II: Spies, Code Breakers & Covert Operations'
Zaftig's has a second location in Brookline.
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