Glencoe and the Great War – The Home Front
This interactive exhibit commemorates the stories of Glencoe residents – both at home and abroad – during World War I. It contains new research and never-before-seen photographs from the era.
The 375 Museum documents the efforts of Glenconians on the home front. Three weeks after the United States entered the war, citizens of Glencoe met to form the Glencoe War Emergency Union. This organization worked tirelessly to support the U.S. war effort on a community level.
In 1917, Glencoe had a population of approximately 2500 people. The WEST GALLERY of the museum introduces visitors to the living room of an upscale home of the era. It features period furniture and publications as well as portraits, photographs and objects from prominent Glencoe families.
The MAIN GALLERY of the 375 museum allows visitors to explore images of 1917 Glencoe through a large touchscreen monitor built into a replica of the iconic Glencoe Train Depot designed by architect Charles S. Frost (the same architect who designed the Chicago Opera House and Navy Pier). The Train Depot was dedicated in 1891 and today remains one of the few buildings in the village that looks very much like it did in 1917.
The NORTH GALLERY of the 375 museum explores the ways in which World War I impacted the community. Women in the village helped at the Red Cross Workshop and made bandages and hospital gowns for the troops. They formed the bulk of the Liberty Loan sales force, worked with experts on food conservation and helped plan recreational activities for the troops at Fort Sheridan and Great Lakes Naval Training Center.
Some young men in the village volunteered to serve in the United States military. Others were drafted. Approximately 250 men – about 10% of the community – were sent to training camps or to fight overseas. Many of the men who remained home volunteered for the reserves. The displays in this gallery tell the stories of the draft and the Glencoe Home Guard through newly discovered photos and through the artistic hand of Chicago Tribune cartoonist and Glencoe resident Frank King.
The rear galleries of the 375 Museum continue with stories of troop training and transport. Visitors then walk through a mockup of a WWI trench to arrive at the 377 Museum which explores the contributions of Glencoe residents in the war overseas.
You can learn all about these activities and the amazing stories of heroism and sacrifice by members of our Glencoe community. The interactive World War I Exhibit is open every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., every Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and by appointment. It is best to call ahead (847-835-0040) or email (info@glencoehistory.org) to make sure that we will be able to provide you with an outstanding visitor experience.or by appointment.