Guide to the War Memorial Room Guest Book, 2011-2016

Collection number: UA 22/41
Size: (1 folder) (.10 cu.ft.)

About the War Memorial Room

The University of New Hampshire Memorial Union Building is the New Hampshire's official state war memorial. Located on the third floor of the MUB, the Memorial Room reflects that distinction and honors all New Hampshire residents who perished while in military action from World War I through present day. Funds to create this building as a war memorial came from alumni, the state, businesses and civic groups.

In 1953, when Governor Hugh Gregg declared the UNH Memorial Union as the State's official war memorial in 1957, he wrote that it was “desirable that as many youth of the state as possible should know and revere the courage and the sacrifice of New Hampshire men and women who served their country.” The memorial is intended to prompt discussion and thought, a place for quiet reflection, and a place of inspiration. By placing this building and this room in the state’s Land Grant University, it was hoped that generations of students to come would be inspired to have these discussions.

The painted windows in the War Memorial Room were designed by UNH Art Professor John Hatch. Hatch taught at UNH from 1949 - 1985 and was best known as a painter of landscapes.

About the Guest book

Name installation ceremonies are scheduled periodically when it becomes necessary to add names of lost New Hampshire soldiers to the plaques. This guest book was placed in the War Memorial Room in 2011 when four more names were added to the plaque. It covers five years of visitors’ thoughts and reflections.