WWII Heritage Evansville Sites Project
What is a WWII Heritage City?
Originally an idea that started with military historian Wilbur D. Jones Jr. in 2008, The WWII Heritage City Program came into existence with the passing of Public Law 116-9 in 2019 by Congress.
Managed and maintained by both the National Parks Service and the Department of the Interior, this program’s purpose is to:
“recognize the historic importance of the United States’ involvement in World War II, the Secretary of the Interior may designate up to one city (jurisdiction) from each state and territory as an American World War II Heritage City.” – nps.gov
In 2022, Evansville was designated an American WWII Heritage City by the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Park Service. Evansville is one of only 38 communities nationwide – and the only city in Indiana – to receive this distinction in recognition of its extraordinary contributions to the World War II home front and its commitment to preserving that legacy.
What kind of project is this?
The WWII Heritage Evansville Sites Project is a collaborative effort with the Evansville Wartime Museum, the Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science, and the USS LST Ship Memorial, Inc.
The project, funded by a grant from the National Parks Service which is also administered by the National WWII Museum, has culminated into both a historic walking and driving tour for history and military buffs of all ages to learn from and enjoy.
Explore Evansville's War History Yourself!
If you are coming in to Evansville to see one of our wonderful museums, enjoying a concert or a sporting event, or simply just curious, please use these buttons below to explore for yourself!
Be sure to be cautious and aware of your surroundings at all times.