In 2005, ACHS produced an award-winning exhibit focusing on the veterans of the Vietnam War. One of these veterans, Bruce Sommer, created a piece of art titled “Anguish” as part of his healing process. In this episode, Collections Manager Kassandra Mackenthun visits with Gather Committee member Jo Rhoady to hear more about the art, Jo’s connection, and how ACHS plans to revisit the exhibit material.
Host Rebecca Desens, ACHS Director, and Sara Given, ACHS Volunteer Coordinator.
Read MoreIn this episode, MSgt USAF (retired) Troy Woodruff reminisces with ACHS Board Member Steve Florman about his time in service, including flying AWAC (Airborne Warning and Control System) planes with NATO forces. During his 20-plus year career, Troy participated in Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, the Cold War, the Yugoslavian conflict in the 1990s, the drug war, and missions over South Korea. To hear the entire conversation, become a History 21: The Vault member or visit the history center and request the interview recording.
Host Rebecca Desens, ACHS Director, Sara Given, ACHS Volunteer Coordinator, and Steve Florman, ACHS Vice President
Read MoreOn April 29 the Anoka County Historical Society, or ACHS, received not one but two Minnesota History Awards from the Minnesota Alliance of Local History Museums for work in 2019 and 2020.
Read MoreAs you read this, Eileen and I should be on our way to pick up Ted in Litchfield after being deployed for 11 months, almost to the day.
I’m sure it will look just like reunions always do in the pictures, just like it did for us when he came home from Kosovo. Three or four buses loaded with soldiers coming along the highway, escorted by police, local well-wishers and some Patriot Guard. Streets lined with signs made by families and friends shouting messages of pride and love. Electrified wives, girlfriends, children, even a dog or two, standing in front of the red brick armory wall, fidgeting with clothes, nails and hair.
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