Current Exhibitions
The Vietnam War: 1945‑1975
More than 40 years after its conclusion, the Vietnam War remains one of the most controversial events of the 20th century. How did the conflict begin? Why did it begin? What are the connections between the war and its confounding cousin, World War I? From perspectives covering both the home front and the war front, The Vietnam War: 1945-1975 explores themes of patriotism, duty and citizenship through a remarkable collection of objects, documents, photographs and more. Exhibition open Nov. 8, 2019 – May 31, 2020 in the Wylie Gallery.
Etched in Memory
World War I ushered in a wave of devastation unlike anything humankind had ever experienced. This path of destruction included countless historically significant buildings and cathedrals. Etched in Memory features color etchings by British artist James Alphege Brewer depicting iconic structures from Belgium and Northern France that were threatened or damaged during the battles of the Great War. Exhibition open Sept. 24, 2019 – April 19, 2020 in the Ellis Gallery.
1919: Peace?
The World War I Armistice on Nov. 11, 1918 ended fighting on the Western Front, but the war did not end even with the signing of the Treaty of Paris at Versailles on June 28, 1919. The world of aristocrats and monarchs vaporized. Millions died. Russia struggled in civil war. Japan’s power in Asia and the Pacific grew. Germany wilted under harsh reparations. Arab nations seethed for independence. The U.S. assumed an uneasy mantle of world leader. This special exhibition examines how the war transformed the world, but left a legacy of unresolved issues and conflict. Exhibition open April 2, 2019 – March 15, 2020 in Exhibit Hall.
Devastated Lands
World War I left behind an unprecedented path of desolate landscapes. By the end of the war, much of the Western Front resembled anything but rolling countryside. Instead, the destruction yielded topography akin to an uninhabited planet. This exhibition examines the battered lands through a series of jarring photographs and illustrations from the Museum and Memorial’s collection. Exhibition open Dec. 11, 2018 – March 29, 2020 in Memory Hall.
For Home and Country
When World War I ended in 1918, the nation celebrated victory. Patriotism was at a peak, and the citizens of Kansas City opened their hearts and wallets to support their country. This exhibit recalls Kansas City at the Great War’s conclusion in 1918-1919. It was a time that transitioned Kansas City from the demands of war to the obligations and opportunities of a newly won peace and inspired the idea of constructing an iconic museum and memorial to remember those who served and sacrificed. Nov. 1, 2019 – Jan. 31, 2020 at The Box Gallery, Commerce Bank Building.