The National WWII Museum Arsenal of Democracy
The National WWII Museum envisioned an immersive, themed environment to tell the story of how the war was fought not only abroad, but at home. The Arsenal of Democracy exhibit covers the “road to war” and how stateside industry, innovation, and citizen effort enabled Allied victory. Spread across nine galleries, the exhibit juxtaposes artifacts, narratives, and atmospheric environments to bring that home-front story to life, with a particular focus on the role of women in the war.
Our Role in Telling the Home Front Story
Solomon Group was brought on in 2017 to provide scenic fabrication and lighting services in support of Gallagher & Associates’ design vision. Across all galleries, we built immersive environments — including a vintage newsstand, factory floor, military barracks, and a 1942-style home. In one gallery, “War Affects Every Home,” we constructed the house itself, sourced period furnishings and appliances, and installed authentic photographs.
To support exhibit storytelling, we also fabricated 51 display cases (more than on any prior SG project), produced specialty graphics, focused more than 400 individual lighting cues, and handled full installation from start to finish.
Context & Recognition
While the exhibit’s opening received media acclaim (including coverage in The Wall Street Journal as a compelling new museum experience), the museum itself has grown in recognition: in 2018, the National WWII Museum was ranked #3 in the U.S. and #8 in the world in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards.
Additionally, the exhibit’s scope and narrative approach — combining artifact authenticity with immersive environments — reflect the museum’s broader mission to deepen visitor engagement through storytelling.
Why It Matters
Arsenal of Democracy is more than a gallery — it is a moment of reflection on how a nation mobilized not only soldiers, but factories, families, and communities. Solomon Group’s contributions helped the exhibit deliver emotional resonance and technological finesse, supporting a landmark addition to the museum’s narrative arc.
