Orangeburg, NY – The Camp Shanks Museum is pleased to announce its fall hours for 2023, inviting visitors to explore the rich history of the largest World War II embarkation camp on the East Coast of the United States.
The museum will be open to the public on the following Saturdays:
- Saturday, October 14, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Located at 20 Greenbush Road in Orangeburg, just behind the Orangetown Building Department and Orangeburg Library, the Camp Shanks Museum serves as a tribute to the historical significance of the camp.
During World War II, Camp Shanks played a crucial role as a point of embarkation for troops departing overseas. Often referred to as “Last Stop USA,” the camp accommodated approximately 50,000 troops across 2,040 acres. Notably, it processed 1.3 million service personnel, including a staggering 75% of those who participated in the historic D-Day invasion. In 1945, Camp Shanks even housed German and Italian prisoners of war.
After the war, Camp Shanks underwent a transformation, becoming housing for veterans with families who were attending colleges and universities in the New York City area under the GI Bill. This settlement, known as Shanks Village, continued to thrive until its closure in 1954.
In June 1994, a small museum was established near the camp’s historical site, preserving its legacy for future generations.
The Camp Shanks Museum welcomes history enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in learning more about this significant chapter in American history. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit and explore the remarkable story of Camp Shanks this fall. Admission is free.