During World War II, the US presence in New Caledonia greatly transformed the country, marking the spirit of its inhabitants.
In Nouméa, by walking the aisles of the new Museum of World War II, you will discover how the war was seen as a liberation and a breath of modernity in this archipelago at the other end of the world.
Half-moon hosts Museum
Why a half-moon? The concept may seem strange, but it is linked to the import of prefabricated buildings with corrugated iron by the US military between 1942 and 1946. These structures shaped as a half tin can have become an integral part of the Caledonian architectural heritage.
The US presence in New CaledoniaVoir plus
A museum in memory of the Free French Forces
The Museum of New Caledonia was born on a very symbolic date, 19 September 2013, a date celebrating the 73rd anniversary of New Caledonia joining the Free French Forces. Because of its position, the country became in 1942 a strategic rear base for US forces to stop the Japanese expansion. The GIs brought with them a vision of the modern world that was fascinating.
Museum displays inspired by GIs
Inside the half-moon, two restored jeeps evoke the American presence in the territory. Just like 500 photos, objects, documents, film clips that tell about paradoxically joyous everyday lives, though disrupted by war, and stories that marked destinies. Paradoxically, this was a happy time, with these GIs bringing chewing gum, Coca Cola, jazz, movies. a touch of madness and recklessness to forget those dark days.
The museum's permanent exhibition: a wealth of information
Engaging on two levels, you will learn about the World War II period through the prism of the Caledonians and the significant events of the conflict: New Caledonia joining Free France, domestic policy, the expulsion of the Japanese, the epic of the Caledonian volunteers, without forgetting daily life in Nouméa and in the bush. The Museum also houses temporary exhibitions on New Caledonia during World War II.
Fun and interactive science terminals
Do not hesitate to visit the six terminals across the entire route. For children aged 12-15 years, designed along with the Symbiosis association, they reveal the great discoveries made during this period: nuclear power, antibiotics, radars, 4x4 engines, psychology or invasive species.