World War II museum open Memorial Day, May 26; admission is free

ROCHELLE – Charles Roberts started preserving World War II equipment and memorabilia in 1987, when he acquired a 1943 White half-track.

Since then, his extensive collection has grown in size and scope; it’s open to the public from 1 to 4 p.m. this Memorial Day for free.

Many World War II artifacts will be on display, including tanks, trucks, cannons and Rochelle News-Leader newspapers from 1945 presenting photographs of Rochelle residents who served during World War II.

Roberts Armory is a museum designed to help future generations learn about the armored vehicles, artillery and other artifacts used by the U.S. in World War II.

Most of Roberts’ collection is housed in the large machine shed, with 25-plus vehicles and various other era-appropriate displays.

Outside, the Higgins Boat also will be open for viewing, weather permitting.

Roberts’ first purchase, a half-track, is a vehicle that uses tracks and wheels. He said the design originally was conceived by the Russians around 1914 but was developed by the Citroen Co. in France.

The U.S. Army purchased a license to develop half-tracks and retrofit existing vehicles. Roberts’ half-track was built by the White Motor Co., while others were built by the Diamond-T Motor Co., Autocar Co. and International Harvester.

“As a child, I was interested in military vehicles,” said Roberts, who operates the museum with his wife, Lydia, south of Rochelle at 2090 Brush Grove Road.

Charles served in the Army from 1968 to 1970. He didn’t know that first purchase would turn into a lifelong passion.

“I didn’t buy it as an investment,” Roberts said. “I have an interest in history.”

That interest compelled Roberts to buy other vehicles and restore them to working order. Some of the vehicles were in bad shape, but everything he has at the museum runs.

They’re working so well, in fact, that the armory’s vehicles often are used in World War II reenactments and parades held across the region.

Many armory vehicles take part in Midway Village’s massive two-day reenactment in Rockford.

He hopes his extensive collection sheds light on the tools used by World War II veterans who fought in all the battles.

“They made so many sacrifices,” he said.

More information is available at enjoyrochelle.com.

There is no admission charge to tour the museum.

The museum’s next opening will be Aug. 16.