All are invited to the opening reception for our next exhibition, “World War I Centennial: Heaven, Hell or Hoboken,” August 6 from 2 – 5 pm. The exhibition focuses on the transformation of Hoboken and its residents after the U.S. entered World War I and converted the city into the main port of embarkation for the U.S Expeditionary Forces destined for Europe. 

The exhibit will evoke life in Hoboken during the Great War through silent films of soldiers gathered at the Hoboken port and government war posters, on loan from the Jersey City Free Public Library, that were designed to boost local draft registration, and urge those on the “home front” to purchase war bonds, conserve resources, and help with the war effort.

In addition, personal photographs, letters, uniforms, and commemorative items reveal the unique contributions and perspectives of Hobokenites, including Mrs. Frank R. Markey, who worked with the Red Cross assisting soldiers, and Peter G. Spinetto, who regularly wrote postcards from the fields of war in France to his large family on the city’s west side. They will be displayed along with Spinetto’s helmet, adorned on the interior brim with the names of places he traveled to, as well as the photographs he sent to his loved ones back home.

This event is free to the public.