National Rosie the Riveter Day

Get ready to honor the legacy of Rosie the Riveter!  Join us on Saturday, March 23rd, from 10am to 3pm, as we celebrate National Rosie the Riveter Day.  Bring the whole family and enjoy exciting activities planned by our education team. Best of all? All Rosie Day Activities are included with your Museum admission! Don’t miss out – mark your calendars and join us for a day of fun and inspiration!

Schedule of Events (All times are subject to change)

10:00am – 3:00 pm – All Day Activities
Rosie Inspired Craft Corner

Step back in time and channel your inner Rosie as you dive into our craft corner. Unleash your creativity and craft your own Rosie-themed memorabilia! From iconic bandanas to riveting posters, let your imagination soar as you pay tribute to the indomitable spirit of the real-life Rosies. Don’t miss this chance to get hands-on with history and create something truly special to commemorate National Rosie the Riveter Day!

Artifact Showcase: Tools of Rosie’s Trade

Get up close and personal with authentic rivet guns, examine the rivets that held aircraft together, and feel the weight of metal samples used in wartime manufacturing. As you explore these artifacts, our knowledgeable guides will transport you to the bustling factories of WWII, where women like Rosie played vital roles in the war effort. Discover the ingenuity and determination of these trailblazing women as we delve into their remarkable contributions to history.

12:30 – Meet a Real Rosie! Mrs. Rita Consolvo

Mrs. Rita Consolvo worked supporting P-38 construction in California, having followed her Sister Marg out to the west coast. Marg worked at the Long Beach factory building B-17s. Here Mrs. Consolvo’s story, and learn what it was like to enter the war-time workforce!

11:00 and 1:00 – Riveting Demonstrations

Prepare to be riveted by the mastery of our skilled artisans from the Museum’s Fighter Factory as they unveil the fascinating world of riveting. Step into the heart of aircraft construction and witness the precision and skill required to join metal components together with rivets. Gain insight into the pivotal role of riveting in the creation of aircraft, understanding firsthand the importance of every rivet in ensuring the safety and functionality of these flying marvels. Don’t miss this captivating demonstration where the past meets the present, and the artistry of aircraft construction unfolds in riveting detail.

12:00 – Meet a Real Airplane Mechanic

Ever wondered what it takes to keep those magnificent flying machines soaring through the sky? Here’s your chance to get an insider’s look into the world of aircraft maintenance! Gain a newfound appreciation for the vital role these skilled professionals play in aviation. And if you’ve ever dreamt of pursuing a career in aircraft maintenance, now’s your chance to learn more about apprenticeships and pathways into this dynamic field!

10:00 and 2:00 – Pop Riveting Demonstrations

Step into the world of WWII-era aircraft construction with our captivating hands-on demonstrations. Discover the crucial role of riveting in crafting the iconic planes of the era while unraveling the remarkable contributions of women during wartime.

10:30 – Riveting Elegance: Hair & Vintage Style Demonstration

Step back in time and unlock the secrets behind Rosie the Riveter’s iconic hairstyle! Join our interactive session to learn the art of recreating her timeless look while delving into the fascinating world of women’s work attire during WWII. Discover how fashion and safety intersected in the factories of the era, and uncover the ingenious ways women adapted their style to the demands of their important roles.

11:30 and 2:30 – Make your Own Victory Garden Activity

Embark on an immersive journey into the fascinating world of Victory Gardens! Delve into the rich history of these pivotal gardens that sustained communities during wartime. Join forces with The Land Army Reenactment group as they guide you through the secrets of successful gardening in challenging times. Get your hands dirty as you plant your very own Victory Garden to take home, connecting with the resilient spirit of the past while cultivating a greener future.

11:30 and 2:00 -Link Trainer Demonstration

Join us as we unravel the captivating story behind the restoration of the 1942 Link Trainer, a pioneering flight simulator used to train pilots during WWII. Discover the intricate details of this remarkable machine and learn how it played a crucial role in shaping the skills of countless aviators.

But that’s not all – delve deeper into history as we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroines who operated and maintained these Link Trainers, contributing significantly to the war effort. Hear their inspiring tales of dedication, skill, and determination as they helped prepare pilots for the challenges of aerial combat.

10:00, 11:00, 1:00, and 2:00 -Reading Corner

Join us for captivating story time sessions hosted by Hampton Road Libraries, featuring inspiring books about the legendary Rosie the Riveter. Dive into tales of courage and resilience, celebrating the remarkable contributions of these iconic women during World War II.