"Bringing "Over There' Back Here" Contact: Lynn Whalen, lynn.whalen@llcc.edu SPRINGFIELD - An outdoor World War I trench exhibit at Lincoln Land Community College was opened to the public at a "Commemoration of the Armistice" Ceremony on Veteran's Day, Sunday, Nov. 11, 2007. The trench project offers a glimpse of the front line in World War I and is part of a year-long observance at the college called "Bringing 'Over There' Back Here." The idea for the trench project was born three years ago, after organizer Dr. Chris McDonald, LLCC professor of political science, returned from a trip with LLCC students to the battlefields of Northern France. He noted in the students' trip diaries the impact of trench exhibits and began researching the possibility of recreating a trench on campus so others could appreciate the conditions and experiences of the Western Front. McDonald was granted an LLCC "Grant for Innovative Teaching" to construct sections of entrenchments based upon original British, French and German plans and designs. "This project is very much a community endeavor," said McDonald. "The design and organization process has involved individuals from all sections of the college, and there have been significant contributions and expertise from local labor unions, construction companies and veterans groups. Since these plans were outlined at LLCC's WWI Symposium in May, there has been a constant stream of inquiries regarding its progress." Open visit days and special events at the trench for students, school groups and the general public have been held since the trench opening and will continue throughout the academic year. School groups and individuals who would like to schedule an appointment to view the trench may contact Dr. McDonald at chris.mcdonald@llcc.edu or lynn.whalen@llcc.edu. View World War I Trench photo gallery HERE
Posted on Tuesday, December 18, 2007
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