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Warkworth’s association with US servicemen, who were stationed here during World War II, was celebrated at a special open day at the museum on September 24.
A large crowd gathered to watch US Embassy representative Wes Jeffers cut the ribbon on two refurbished army huts, which are on permanent display.
The embassy supported the recent upgrade of the interiors of the huts, including a display of soldiers relaxing surrounded by their belongings in one hut and information and photograph panels, including an audio history, in another.
Museum president Brenda Yoxall told the gathering that the stories that had been gathered during the refurbishment were to be treasured.
“They are our shared history,” she said. “They remind us of a time when NZ was under the very real threat of a Japanese invasion and that’s why we refer to the arrival of the US servicemen as ‘the friendly invasion’.
“They made us feel safer and during their time here, they shared our lives, their skills, helped on farms and built roads. They deserve to be remembered.”
Jeffers thanked the museum for celebrating the deep friendship between the US and NZ.
He said many of the 5000 soldiers who came to Warkworth were very young men who had never been away from home before.
“You opened your hearts to them and gave them comfort and love, and for that we will always be very grateful,” he said.
Museum manager Victoria Joule said the day had been exhausting but very enjoyable.
“There was a great atmosphere and it was particularly rewarding to see older residents who remembered the servicemen, connecting and sharing their memories,” she said.
A specially recorded video featuring some of those memories, as well as a display of war bride memorabilia, will be on display at the museum for the remainder of this year.
Special thanks were extended to Jon Waters for his production of the video and museum volunteers, and the Military Reenactment Society and Warkworth Brass for their involvement on the day.
