THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION COUNTY WAR MUSEUM RELEASE
The Vermilion County War Museum announces a new Speaker Series to mark the 200th Birthday of Vermilion County and the 250th Birthday Celebration of the United States of America.
Museum President Larry Weatherford said, “We’re excited to launch this “First Saturday” series that will feature “Fireside Chats” each month through early April. The monthly programs will be held at one of our four beautiful fireplaces at the Museum. As the warmer weather arrives, the programs will move away from the fireside setting into other parts of the building. These special programs offer a unique chance to explore our shared history, connect with the community, and enjoy engaging conversations in a warm, welcoming setting.”
Board member Susan Miceli-Green said, “Our first event will be held on Saturday. December 6th at 1:00 p.m. The topic will be “Remembering Pearl Harbor.” On this anniversary, we’ll gather to honor the memory of those impacted by the events of December 7, 1941, and explore the historical significance and personal stories that continue to shape our nation’s understanding of resilience and sacrifice.”
“This won’t be a lecture on Pearl Harbor with one speaker focusing on the attack itself,” Weatherford said. “We’ll be seated in a casual fashion and talk about how the news of the attack on Pearl Harbor arriving on the mainland and particularly in our area. We’ll talk with people who heard the news by the radio with their families and get their remembrances.” We’ll also have people from various age groups talk about how the perspective has changed over the years. We’re especially looking forward to playing back recordings of the first broadcasts about the attack on radio, including President Roosevelt’s timeless “Day of Infamy” speech. Following our discussion and recognition of local sailors killed in the attack, we’ll play back news reel footage that would have shown here in our local theaters.”
“Admission will be free for each of these events.,” according to Events Chair, Rhea Weatherford. “That’s because of generous donors who are sponsoring these programs.” The War Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 307 North Vermilion in Danville. The second program in the series will focus on “Letters Home.” That will be on Saturday, January 3, 2026 and will feature Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War era letters written by service members and their families.
