Permanent Exhibit Galleries
Explore the Joliet area's rich history through our award-winning permanent
exhibit galleries located on the main and upper museum levels
The Soaring Achievements of John C. Houbolt
This state-of-the-art Apollo/Houbolt Exhibit celebrates the historic 1969 moon landing and honors former Joliet resident and key proponent of the lunar orbit rendezvous concept, Dr. John C. Houbolt. The 500 square-foot, two-story exhibit features interactive panels, diagrams and maps, audio-visuals, flat-screen narratives, and period dioramas to tell the exciting story of the race to the moon, the Apollo 11 mission, the moon landing, and Dr. Houbolt's vision.
A step-in Lunar Lander Simulator (pictured at lower left) challenges visitors to begin their daring journey of space exploration. Once inside, visitors see the same controls used by the first lunar explorers during their missions. Using a throttle and a joystick, guests use skill and wit to guide their craft to the approaching lunar surface.
A step-in Lunar Lander Simulator (pictured at lower left) challenges visitors to begin their daring journey of space exploration. Once inside, visitors see the same controls used by the first lunar explorers during their missions. Using a throttle and a joystick, guests use skill and wit to guide their craft to the approaching lunar surface.
Strike Up the Band! 100 Years of the Joliet Township H.S. Bands
Band Beginnings
“They are one of the finest organizations in the world. They are a credit to themselves, their parents, their teachers and their community which supports them and which they represent.”
- Director Bruce Houseknecht (JTHS 1945-1969)
Today, Joliet is known as the City of Champions, not because of its sports teams or movie stars, but because of its world-class high school band program, the Joliet Township High School Band (JTHSB). An estimated 25,000 students have taken part in band activities over the past 100 years. This permanent exhibit celebrates the program that has performed for luminaries such as John Phillip Sousa, President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Mickey Mouse.
So, why feature the band?
|
Initially organized on an informal basis, the Joliet Township High School Band went on to play a significant role in the development of instrumental music education in the United States. This beautiful exhibit features many colorful artifacts, instruments, trophies, awards, and touch screen audio and visual treasures from the early part of the 20th century up until modern day.