Holidays on the Homefront

During the dark days of World War II, Americans, like citizens around the world, struggled to maintain as much of their “normal” lives as possible. Through four Christmas seasons, Americans on the “Homefront” struggled to keep their holiday traditions alive.

Shortages of fuel, food, consumer goods and raw materials led to rationing. With millions of fathers serving their nation’s war effort, there was even a shortage of Santa Clauses.

Join us as we explore how Americans families adapted to the demands of a world at war and preserved the Spirit of Christmas

PRESENTER: 

Ken Neely serves as an Educator/Interpreter at the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site in Denison, TX where he develops public programming and conducts research, with a particular focus on the life and career of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Ken attained a BA in History and an MA in Secondary Education at Austin College, where he was the recipient of the Stephen F. Austin Fellowship in History. He began his career as a history teacher. After thirty-three years in public education, he joined the THC in 2021, where he continues to develop educational opportunities designed to inspire young people to embrace history and to contemplate a life of public service.