New Exhibit Opens at Donna Reed Heritage Museum

Photo by Librado Romero/New York Times

WW II servicemen write to Donna Reed

A new exhibit entitled, Dear Donna, opened at the Donna Reed Heritage Museum on July 2, 2012. It provides a glimpse into the life of Donna Reed during World War II and features letters written to her by Iowa servicemen.

Visitors will see an issue of the New York Times that announced the discovery of 341 letters Donna had saved in an old trunk; photos and letters relating to her work at the Hollywood USO; an autographed photo she gave to soldier Glenn Peterson of Harlan; a letter to lifelong pen pal, Violet Lindsay, mentioning her desire to support the war effort; excerpts from a letter from her mother referring to Donna’s upcoming visit to promote the sale of war bonds in Denison; and a reference to a Denison appearance of the comedy team of Abbott and Costello.

The exhibit also includes a window display of large format images on loan from the Orpheum Theater Center in Marshalltown, Ia. They were made possible through a partnership established with the Orpheum Theater Center, which has a permanent collection celebrating Iowans of the stage and screen, including Donna Reed.

The exhibit will run through August at the Donna Reed Heritage Museum, 1305 Broadway, Denison, IA. Additional information can by obtained at 712.263.3334 or info@donnareed.org.