The Wallace Theater has announced its upcoming Pop Up Museum event, showcasing a captivating array of artifacts from local families and collectors.
This year’s exhibit promises a poignant journey into the lives of the Greatest Generation, highlighting the stories of bravery, camaraderie, and sacrifice during World War II.
Among the treasures on display are personal correspondences between brothers who served concurrently in different parts of the world, offering a glimpse into the bonds formed amidst the turmoil of war.
Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the rich traditions and solidarity among enlisted personnel, exemplified by artifacts like the “short snorter” from a young Marine who served in the Pacific. A “short snorter” is a collection of monetary bills from an airman’s travels.
A focal point of the exhibition is a remarkable 82nd Airborne Glider dress uniform, resplendent with decorations and history. While the uniform bears a name tag, hand-marked on the inside of the jacket, the identity of the courageous serviceman remains a mystery.
The Wallace Theater invites the community to join in the quest to unveil the story behind this enigmatic figure, urging anyone with information to come forward.
“So often, people focus on a big-name figure in history. This exhibit brings our attention to local unsung heroes and their stories. It shows we care about and appreciate them and their service and sacrifice” said Corbin Folsom-Edwards, Junior Curator from South Plains College.
The pop-up museum also features the exhibit, “Images of Valor: U.S. Latinos and Latinas in World War II,” is an exhibition by the School of Journalism and Center for Mexican American Studies at The University of Texas at Austin and presented in partnership with Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
The museum will be open throughout the month of May on Mondays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., or by calling the Wallace to schedule an appointment for you or a group.
The museum was created by students from Levelland ISD and History majors from South Plains College. “I’ve enjoyed learning about all of the history behind artifacts and how something small played such a significant role in the history of people’s lives.” Austin Ojeda, Junior Curator, South Plains College History Major.
“This Pop Up Museum offers a unique chance to delve into the past, share stories from our community and bring together partnerships of students at Levelland ISD, South Plains College, community members who have sharied their family artifacts and stories, and the Hockley County Historical Commission.” remarked Alycyn Kelling. “We encourage everyone to visit, not only to admire these incredible artifacts but also to help us piece together the puzzle of our local history.”
Admission is free, and all are welcome to contribute their knowledge and insights to unravel the mysteries of the past and honor the service of members of our community.
We are excited because this artifact piece is a new element to the museum and we are always looking to improve and engage the community. For more information, please contact the Wallace at 806-523-8773 or www. WallaceTheater. com/ Events.