The importance of women and the work that they provided during World War II has frequently been overlooked or underappreciated. Since a large number of the male population went overseas and were relocated from their hometowns during World War II, women joined the workforce as well as resumed the critical role of matriarch in order to keep the economy stable. The overwhelming task to maintain a healthy balance between being the sole provider and the head of the family became more and more difficult for women to take on by themselves as the war dragged out. But, as women accepted new roles in the workplace they proved their value as hard workers, challenged ideas that sterotyped work and gender, overcame negative attitudes, and found a personal independence.
Wisconsin Women and Their Contributions to the Workforce As Well As Social Life During World War II examines the various types of work that Wisconsin women did during World War II as well as the new forms of social interactions they formed. From machinery and industrial work to clerical and military work, this exhibit explores the different ways in which working women played a key role in maintaining the homefront in Wisconsin and how they kept themselves busy.