The First World War in Color: International Treasures from the National World
War I Museum
Through August 22, 2010
“The First World War in Color: International Treasures from the National World War I Museum” offers vivid insight into the Great War by presenting newly acquired historical objects from countries around the world.
Black and white photography which captured the grey images of the Great War failed to show the flashes of color seen by the soldier. The special exhibition shows the stark contrast between these black and white images and the colorful objects from the war.
The reality of World War I included parades of armies marching in the world’s capitols, awash with colorful uniforms and flags, to the quiet radiance of past battlefields covered with red poppies. 
The exhibition is located in the Museum’s Exhibit Hall, an original 1926 building that flanks the Liberty Memorial Tower. The exhibition is made up of newly acquired historical objects from countries around the world that represent the vivid colors of the Great War.
“We are thrilled to share the amazing treasures the Museum has actively acquired since our 2006 opening,” explains Vice President of Museum Programs Eli Paul. “We have been fortunate to receive thousands of exceptional new artifacts and are delighted to share the best-of-the-best with our visitors. This exhibition helps you understand why the Museum continues to collect artifacts. There are so many stories from this era to share – and new acquisitions help us tell those stories.”
“The First World War in Color” will include one-of-a-kind uniforms, helmets, books, textiles, medals and unique personal items from the Great War. Other extraordinary artifacts include original paintings, vivid posters, color photographs, postcards and documents.
The National World War I Museum has been collecting treasures that span the globe since the end of the Great War and still actively collects. Since its grand opening in 2006, thousands of new objects have been acquired by the Museum. One of the largest and most significant acquisitions, donated by Joseph and Blanche Touhill of St. Louis, Missouri, includes the objects that make up the core of the “treasures” exhibited in “The First World War in Color.”
“We were simply stunned with the quality of European uniforms that Joe and Blanche Touhill donated to the Museum – both in their rarity and excellent condition,” explains Paul. “We hope this special exhibition inspires others to consider donating artifacts to the National World War I Museum. While we have the most comprehensive collection in the United States there are still significant historical objects that we are seeking.” 
Admission to the special exhibition is included with admission to the National World War I Museum. The exhibit is supported by Buffalo Funds the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund.