GROSSE POINTE FARMS, Nov. 3, 2026 – This month, The War Memorial is teaming up with Grosse Pointe Public Schools in a special way – to bring local history to life for approximately 465 sixth-grade students from the district through an immersive, inquiry-based educational experience exploring the 1911 Aviation Meet of the Aero Club of Michigan.
Developed with support from an $8,000 Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) Arts Education grant awarded to The War Memorial, the program connects students with the people, places and innovations that shaped their community. Funding supports curriculum development, educational staff and consultants, instructional materials, reproductions of primary sources, historical artifacts, and hands-on learning activities.
During the two-hours sessions, students will investigate historic photographs, newspaper accounts, primary-source materials, and artifacts while participating in historical inquiry, creative writing, visual design, discussion, and collaborative activities. Stations include meeting aviation’s early players and experts, a paper airplane competition, the future of mobility, and more. Building on classroom learning about the Wright Brothers, innovation and local history, students will explore Russell Alger Jr.’s connection to early aviation and examine Grosse Pointe’s place in broader Michigan and national history. In fact, the Grosse Pointe Aero Club Meet-Up of 1911 happened right down the road from The War Memorial, at the site of what is now Grosse Pointe South High School.
The program is being developed collaboratively by district educators, curriculum leaders, local history experts, and The War Memorial. Designed to complement existing district curriculum and Michigan K–12 Social Studies and Science Standards, it integrates social studies and science with English language arts and visual arts, strengthening students’ skills in critical thinking, source analysis, communication, creativity, and problem-solving. Additional program partners include Selfridge Military Air Museum, Grosse Pointe Historical Society, and the Louisa St. Clair Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
The initiative also establishes a potential model for future collaborative educational programming between Grosse Pointe Public Schools and The War Memorial.
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is an experiential space open to everyone. For over 75 years, this nonprofit organization has served as a patriotic, cultural, and community center, offering a wide range of innovative programs for all ages. Annually, The War Memorial welcomes thousands of guests for community events, educational programming, and private gatherings in its unique and historic setting. At its core, The War Memorial celebrates the ideas of American democracy while honoring those who have defended these ideals with tireless effort and personal sacrifice. As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to inspiring and enriching the community through unparalleled experiences.
###
CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org