Cultural Expression Behind Barbed Wire
As important as the work the prisoners did during the work day was their experience in the off duty hours. Although the prisoners were treated well according to the Geneva Convention, boredom would have been a problem had it not been for the encouragement they received from the American staff to make positive use of their leisure time. They were provided with writing materials, art supplies, woodworking utensils, and musical instruments. Although the letters were censored, this contact was essential. Many pieces of art, woodworking, theater productions, and writing have been recovered and are shown in this exhibit. The display demonstrates the remarkable talent of the prisoners and the positive expression of their experience in captivity.
The Exhibit
The opening panel of Cultural Expression Behind Barbed Wire
Some of the oil paintings done by POW artists
Sketches by POWs and artifacts of camp life
Faces and stories of German POWs
Crafts made by German POWs at Camp Algona
POW made Crèche and information about the Nativity
Scene