What a wonderful resource we have, right here in the Mid-Ohio Valley, for those seeking to learn more about our history. When the Castle in Marietta hosts its All Ages History Camps, there is always something we can learn about what got us where we are today.

In this era, that is essential.

Those who attended a recent session got to learn about different facets of American history during and after World War II, from learning about the experiences of Japanese-Americans in internment camps to how to prepare meals while rationing.

Parts of the day included presentations on Eloise (Burke) White, a Black woman from Marietta who served in the military and worked as a typist for the head of the Tuskegee Airmen; the use of plastics in World War II and the 1950s and ’60s; and even the popularity of soda fountains in the ’50s.

The sessions are so popular they bring people from far and wide to take part. Paden City resident Patty Wright, for example, made the trip to learn more about the World War II era subject matter because she is working on a book.

But, of course, local folks get the benefit of such insight, too. “It’s just good to learn,” said Marietta resident Kimberly Johnson.

Yes, it is. Thank goodness we have such valuable resources in our communities to do so, and knowledgeable educators at the Castle (and many of our other wonderful museums) willing to make it happen.