The Wright Museum of World War II recently renamed its lobby to The Carole Wright Welcome Center, which honors the ongoing contributions of Carole Wright, wife of museum founder David Wright.
“Her understated leadership and total commitment to David’s vision for the Wright Museum has inspired all of us here,” said Mike Culver, executive director. “Her endless warmth and good humor make it undeniably fitting that the beautiful new entrance lobby has been renamed The Carole Wright Visitor Welcome Center.”
For Wright, whose husband David passed away in 2003, the museum’s continued growth is “amazing.” “The entire thing is a dream come true,” said Wright, who serves on the museum’s board. “It’s an amazing place, and I thank all the board members and especially to Mike for making it happen—it’s a treasure. David would be thrilled…It’s a great legacy he left for all of us.”
It is a legacy Culver said he takes very seriously, which to some extent informs how he approaches his role. “Each year, we develop or bring in new exhibits to highlight lesser known aspects of World War II and American history, including other wars, and their relevance to today,” he said. “It’s important we continue to create new learning experiences for people of all ages.”
Currently, the museum features an exhibit on World War I, made possible by NEH on the Road, a special initiative of the National Endowment for the Humanities, which provided major funding support. Major funding has also been provided by The Ballentine Family Charitable Fund with additional support from Laconia Daily Sun.
The exhibit, WW1 America, explores vitally important stories of a transformational and divisive era for a broad, multi-generational audience. “The exhibit is visually dynamic with large-scale photographs, moving images, multimedia environments, and re-created settings such as a movie theater,” said Culver. “It is also a socially interactive forum with stories and many period artifacts supported by authentic voices expressing competing views.”
According to Culver, nearly everything that happens at The Wright reflects the vision of David Wright with continued support from Carole. “Renaming the lobby honors the museum’s roots, as we look to a brighter, more inclusive future for Americans,” he said.
The region’s leading resource for educators and learners of all ages on World War II, The Wright features more than 14,000 items in its collection that are representative of both the homefront and battlefield.
