While in New England on official business, I had the pleasure of visiting a most interesting private museum dedicated to artifacts of militaria used in WW II. It is the handiwork of a renowned historian, Kenneth W. Rendell. Rendell is the world's preeminent collector of letters and autographs, spending over 50 years collecting, authenticating, and discovering historically significant documents around the world. In addition to his WW II collections, he has WW I artifacts, and significant Western Americana, including an original map of Lewis and Clark's Journey of Exploration 1804-1806.
Unlike New Orleans ' Museum of WW II, this museum is more focused on individuals who were personally involved. Examples of these people include Gen. Eisenhower, Gen. Rommel, Gen Geo. Patton, Gen DeGaulle, Winston Churchill, A. HItler, J. Stalin, and others.
While focused on the European theater, one section includes many elements of the Pacific Theater with considerable attention paid to THE BATTLE OF IWO JIMA.
Attendance is low and we found ourselves alone most of the 5 hours my friend Bill and I spent inspecting the many samples of equipment on display. Unlike most museums, most hardware can be handled whether a rifle, mortar, ammunition belt, or a bazooka. Bayonets, daggers, pistols all are available to heft. A fully restored jeep joins with a Sherman medium tank and an authentic landing craft to offer a lifesized look and some notable vehicles.
The museum staff are knowledgeable veterans and can offer a wealth of information and answer most questions. A valuable asset available is the audio tour device, narrated by Mr. Lendell who not only describes the piece but provides the back story. An example is the medal collection of fighter pilot G. McCampbell who shot down 29 Japanese aircraft in the Pacific. His Medal of Honor was presented to him by Franklin Roosevelt in 1944. His family wanted it to go to Mr. Rendell because of his reputation as an historian par excellant.
The Museum has a website with all details as to hours and visiting conditions.
This is a 5 star location.
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