DONATE ARTIFACTS

Each artifact tells a story. Whether it's a uniform, a letter home, or a battlefield relic, your donation helps us preserve the memory of those who served and ensure future generations understand the human side of war. At the WWII Veterans History Project, we are committed to honoring the legacy of the Greatest Generation through authentic, personal, and powerful museum exhibits and public displays.

OUR MUSEUM

We bring history to life through traveling WWII museum exhibits presented at schools, libraries, and institutions across the country. Partnering with museums for rotating displays, we share authentic stories and artifacts with thousands of people each year. Our ultimate goal is to establish a permanent museum in Central Florida, pairing our extensive oral history archive with artifacts to create a center for remembrance, education, and preservation.

HOW TO DONATE

We welcome donations of original WWII-era items, including but not limited to:

  • Uniforms, insignia, and medals

  • Personal letters, diaries, and photographs/albums

  • Field gear, equipment, helmets, and headgear

  • Wartime souvenirs and battlefield relics (German, Italian, Japanese, etc.)

  • Weapons, bayonets, and field gear, and other equipment

  • Service records, discharge papers, and paperwork

  • Complete collections of military antiques & memorabilia

Click here for a more detailed list of artifacts we are actively looking to add to our collection right now.

To begin the donation process:

  1. Contact us using the form below or email us directly at info@ww2veteranshistoryproject.com

  2. Share details about the item(s), including photos and any known background history.

  3. Our curatorial team will review the submission and follow up with next steps.

 

EXPLORE RECENT DONATIONS

Every item donated to our museum carries a story — of bravery, sacrifice, and remembrance.

Below are some of the most recent additions to our collection, generously shared by veterans or their families across the country:

FAQs

Is WWIIVHP still accepting donations?

Yes, we are actively accepting World War II-era artifact donations. Due to limited space and high interest, we prioritize items with strong historical significance or personal connection to a WWII veteran. If you're unsure whether your item or collection qualifies, please contact us.

What is done with donated artifacts?

All donated artifacts are reviewed by our curatorial team, cataloged into our historical archive, and considered for exhibition in our museum displays or traveling exhibitions. Even items not on immediate display may be used in research, digital exhibits, or educational content.

How will my donation be credited?

Donors are credited by name in our exhibit labeling, digital catalog, and permanent records unless you request to remain anonymous. We are also happy to provide a certificate of appreciation and documentation for your personal records.

When will my donation be on display?

While we aim to exhibit as many donated items as possible, not all artifacts are displayed immediately. Some are rotated into our traveling exhibitions or reserved for future permanent displays. Every item is carefully cataloged and preserved for future use.

How do I send my donation?

After your donation is approved by our curatorial team, we will provide shipping instructions. You will be reimbursed for any shipping and handling costs. We may also coordinate a drop-off/pick-up depending on your location or size of the donation.

Will you appraise my artifacts?

No, we do not offer financial appraisals. As a nonprofit organization, we are legally prohibited from providing valuations for donated items. We recommend consulting a certified appraiser if you need one for tax or insurance purposes.

OUR MUSEUM VISION

What began as a grassroots effort to preserve the stories of WWII veterans has grown into a national movement. Today, the WWII Veterans History Project hosts dozens of traveling museum exhibits each year, bringing original artifacts, personal stories, and educational programming to communities across the country.

We proudly collaborate with museums, libraries, schools, and historical societies to create impactful, rotating exhibits that connect the past to the present, from local town halls to major institutions.

But our long-term goal is even more ambitious.

We are actively working toward the creation of a brick-and-mortar museum in Central Florida — a dedicated space to house our growing collection, host immersive exhibits, and serve as a national center for education, research, and remembrance.

Your artifact donation not only helps us tell powerful stories today, it lays the foundation for the museum of tomorrow.

It’s our honor to serve as the caretakers of these artifacts and the stories behind them — preserving the memories of the Generation Generation.