When the US army came to town

Published on 21 April 2017

Seventy five years ago, the United States Army called Rockhampton home - trebling the population, changing the town, and creating many friendships, stories and memories.

Community Services Committee Chair Councillor Rose Swadling said the public will have the opportunity to experience life back then with several free history sessions following Anzac Day.

“During the Second World War up to 70,000 American combat troops called our Region home and we formed unbreakable bonds with those soldiers; they played a valuable part in shaping our community at that time,” Cr Swadling said. 

“We valued, encouraged and fostered their friendships and it’s something the library will explore with our free history talks from April 26 to May 8.”

Join us in the Fitzroy Room for a virtual tour of the city when the US Army stayed in Rockhampton.

See how Rockhampton’s buildings were transformed to house the American troops. Hear the story about Eleanor Roosevelt, the President’s wife, who visited Rockhampton in 1943. Listen to the music of Artie Shaw, who had Rockhampton citizens jitterbugging along the streets.

Bring your own memories, stories and join in the fun of being transported back in time to the Rockhampton of the 1940s.

Join us at the Rockhampton Regional Library:

Wednesday 26 April                9.30am - 10.30am

Thursday 27 April                    4pm - 5pm

Wednesday 3 May                  3.30pm - 4.30pm

Friday 5 May                           9.30am - 10.30am

Saturday 6 May                      9.30am - 10.30am
Monday 8 May                        9:30am-1030am

For more details, please call 4936 8043.