Join us for a private tour of the Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond by longtime Rosie docent and OLLI member Simone Adair. Discover the fascinating stories of the American WWII Home Front, where ordinary people did extraordinary things to support the war effort. From workers in the defense industry to those on the home front, learn about the daily lives, social changes, and cultural shifts that shaped this pivotal period in American history. 

During World War II, six million women entered the workforce. "Rosie the Riveter" and her "We Can Do It" motto became symbols of all women Home Front workers. A shortage of white male workers led the U.S. Government to actively recruit for war industry jobs. Initially, white middle-class women were recruited, followed by minority men, and finally minority women. Integration of women and minorities into the workforce was initially met with resistance. However, the new opportunities for these groups "cracked open" the door to equal rights, significantly impacting the Civil Rights Movement and Women's Movement in the following decades.

The Tour

We’ll begin the tour outside along Bay Trial where we’ll learn about the Ford Assembly Plant including the Craneway. We’ll discuss why Richmond was chosen to build ships and who Henry Kaiser was and about his lasting legacy. You’ll be guided through the different galleries and have a chance to ask your questions.

We’ll also view a 16-minute film about the Richmond wartime history. If time permits, we will view a short film on the Port Chicago Disaster. On July 17, 2024, President Biden made a statement concerning the U.S. Navy’s exoneration of 258 Black Sailors unjustly tried and convicted of mutiny and disobeying orders.

Members are responsible for their own transportation. We will reach out to the group with details as we get closer to the event date.

[For members only • Limited to 30 members]