ABOUT THE PROJECT

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What is Cold War: Culver City?

The Cold War may have ended more than a quarter-of-a-century ago, yet historic relics remain throughout the landscape of Culver City. Although some of the physical pieces of this history are hidden from view or have been destroyed, many still linger, revealing clues to underlying social, economic, and political positions of an entire generation of Culver City residents. By identifying these relics, we are uncovering an important piece of Culver City's history in relationship to Los Angeles and the nation at large in one of the most overlooked and misunderstood periods of international -- and local -- politics.
The web-based historical exploration of Culver City serves to introduce new and old residents, students, hobbyists, and professionals alike to the Cold War and how it is embedded in the fabric of Culver City life. Explore the major themes that shaped everyday life in Culver City, including Civil Defense, the Aerospace Industry, and the Film Industry; visit the locations of these histories by following our maps or by taking a self-guided tour; or listen to the community stories of some of Culver City's most influential and individual voices.

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This year marks the 100th anniversary of the City of Culver City. The Centennial celebration begins on its 100th birthday on September 20, 2016 and concludes with festivities on Incorporation Day on September 20, 2017. The year-long celebration will highlight the theme: "Culver City – A Century of Change." This was the motivation behind Harry Culver’s decision to found Culver City in 1917, halfway between downtown Los Angeles and Abbot Kinney’s Venice at a site where “All roads lead to Culver City.”

Showcasing the contributions of the active civic, non-profit organizations, and companies located in the community and serve our residents, The is excited to be playing a vital role in exploring the history of the city at large. Going above and beyond to contribute to the history of the entire city through its research, archives, and collections, this digital and interactive project, Cold War: Culver City, will inevitably change how we view and understand Culver City both over the last century, as well as for the next 100 years.

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​This project was made possible with support from California Humanities, a partner of the NEH. Visit .
​Thank you to our other collaborators and supporters: 's Oral History students, Dr. Janet Brodie, Dr. JoAnna Poblete, , the , and the , particularly Julie Lugo Cerra, Joseph Harper and Kelsey Picken for website research and design, as well as the many advisors and archives throughout greater Los Angeles that provided images and historical documents that made this project possible.

The Wende Museum approaches provision of access to its collections with a commitment to ethical, well-intentioned practice. If you are concerned that you have found material on our website to which you hold the rights and for which you have not given permission, please contact us at . Upon request, we will remove material from public view while we address rights concerns. To see the full Rights, Reuse, and Open Access Policy, visit .

explore the themes
hear community stories
Visit the sites
Wende Museum of the Cold War
5741 Buckingham Parkway, Suite E
Culver City, CA 90230