Historian’s Corner

By Dan Shine

Voice Columnist

West Haven Veterans Museum

Part II

See part 1

In anticipation of these changes, history buff and Korean War Veteran Frank A. Carrano, sought to locate and move the New Haven Grays’ artifacts to a new home.  Thus, in 2006, they were moved to 105 Water Street, the former home of the defunct Connecticut Refining Company.

However, this location was not nearly suitable for the needs of those whose dream it was to rebuild the collection into a viable, informative, attractive and welcoming museum and learning center.  No artifacts were ever moved in.

The concept needed someone to champion it through what would be the difficult early stages, and create a dignified edifice which would honor not only the Grays, but all the many others who had strived to defend this Country of ours.  Again, Frank Carrano, himself a Korean War veteran, stepped forward.

At this time, the museum was little more than a concept.  Marty Degrand, himself a Navy Veteran of the Korean Conflict, arranged a suitable, very sizeable, very attractive building on Hood Terrace for the fledgling organization.  And with that, they were on their way!  A small group of volunteers were on hand when the trailer-load of New Haven Grays artifacts arrived and made ready to unpack, clean and install them.

In 2010, the Veterans Museum officially opened.  In the first year, the transitional president was Ray Guarino; he would be succeeded by Frank Chasney for the next eleven years.  The organization had a twelve-member board of directors, including Emmet Hibson, Bill Benson and Marty Degrand.  Another very active board member was Beth Sabo, who provided a vital link between the fledgling organization and City Hall.

Not surprisingly, most volunteer workers at the museum were veterans themselves.  They spent long hours, creating exhibits and dioramas which reflected both ability and experience.  Today’s visitors can see examples of military hardware and life both in combat and behind the lines.  It should be noted that the vast majority of the materials on display were donations of personal property, given by veterans or their families.

One display features “Sergeant Stubby,” a heroic dog who served as a mascot and a war hero in World War I. He participated in 17 battles, received multiple awards, and became a famous symbol of American patriotism.

As with any organization of this type, the museum’s continued progress needs and encourages new volunteers, and invites younger people to stop by, take a look, and consider lending their talents to this worthy cause.

Visitors include school classes, home school children, veterans groups, senior citizens and civic groups—and just curious people who are passing by and walk through the door.  There is no admission fee, but the museum staff greatly appreciates donations of any size.

Telephone (203) 934-1111.

30 Hood Terrace, West Haven (across from the railroad station).

Hours:  Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.