Museum Reconstruction Project
The Great Lakes Naval Museum Foundation (Foundation), working closely with the US Navy, is restoring and reconstructing this significant mid-century building, at the Great Lakes Naval Station, which now houses the new Great Lakes Naval Museum.
Foundation Mission
The Great Lakes Naval Museum Foundation promotes interest and support for the United States Navy's newest official museum, The Great Lakes Naval Museum, which informs, educates and inspires sailors, family members and the public by presenting the history, diversity, rich tradition and proud heritage of the U.S. Navy by using artifacts, artwork, memorabilia and interactive exhibits to tell the story of recruit training for sailors from the early Navy to the present time.
The Foundation raises funds for activities not funded by the Navy. Our primary goal at this point is to raise funds for the restoration of the architecturally significant building and support the museum as it develops displays and services.
Foundation Goals
The Foundation's goal is to support a museum that emphasizes the quality of Navy training with a concentration on enlisted training that takes place at Great Lakes. The Museum will visually reflect how Naval Station, Great Lakes, located in the heartland of America, has played a unique role for millions of Sailors who have passed through the "Gateway to the Fleet."
There will be a focus on: the founding, the history, and the past and present operation of Naval Station, Great Lakes; the history and role of ethnic diversity in the Naval Service; the first black enlisted school, the first black officers trained, and the first integrated schools (1944); and the story of the transition from Civilian to Sailor. Visitors can explore the history of recruit training and veterans will see the Navy they served juxtaposed against today's Navy, and they will find a forum in which to recount their Navy accomplishments.
Foundation Vision
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