Showcasing our Amazing Artifacts – 2026 April 6 Entry

Wartime posters inspired our  “Homefront“

During World War II, Americans in Clay County and elsewhere did many things to support the “war effort,” including scrap drives, rationing, air raid drills, and much more.  In addition to the family members who served, manufacturing companies dedicated themselves to making weapons and military hardware, as the world changed in countless ways. 

One item that came into widespread use, especially after the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941 was the patriotic poster that appeared in post offices, railway stations, restaurants, retail stores, and other public places.  Large and brightly colored, the posters urged citizens to support the war effort in many ways – conserving fuel, avoiding waste, giving up luxury items, taking care to avoid revealing military operations, and much more.

One of the most popular posters depicted “Rosie the Riveter,” a cultural icon who represented the many women who worked in the factories and shipyards – filling in for male workers then serving in the military.  Our museum contains several posters from both world wars, donated by various sources over the years.  But the “Rosie” poster gets the most comments from visitors.

The posters are displayed, along with weapons, uniforms, and other wartime items in the back room of the museum’s main floor. 

Come and see them soon!