Military history buffs need to plan their visit to The Bend's museum district.

The History Museum and Studebaker National Museum have put together an incredible exhibit: "Manufacturing Victory." Encompassing galleries in both museums, "Manufacturing Victory" takes a deep dive into how local companies and workers have contributed to war efforts dating back to before the Civil War.

The exhibit is open now and is on display until Feb. 6, 2022. Visitors can see the entire exhibit by purchasing a pass for both museums.

Sneak Peek at Local Military History

Generations of workers around The Bend have contributed to United States military conflicts over the last 100-plus years. They worked at well-known manufacturers like Studebaker, Bendix, AM General and Ball-Band.

Vehicles on display in this exhibit include a Studebaker horse-drawn army wagon and an AM General Humvee. You can also find ammunition manufactured by Oliver, a missile by Bendix and diving equipment from Ball-Band. From utensils to clothing, nothing was too small for local manufacturers in their defense production.

More History at the Museums

Aside from the military history in "Manufacturing Victory," there is more to explore while visiting the museums. These are some of the permanent collections and exhibits in both that you should see.

Studebaker National Museum

1st Source Bank Presidential Carriage Collection: The world's largest collection of presidential carriages includes the barouche Abraham Lincoln used the night of his assassination.

The Original Collection: Studebaker Corporation in 1966 gifted its 33-vehicle collection to the City of South Bend. This nucleus now forms Studebaker National Museum's main collection.

The History Museum

Full Circle: Shakespearean Culture at Notre Dame: In collaboration with Shakespeare at Notre Dame, this exhibit showcases past and present performances and analysis.

Power, Production and Pioneers: The St. Joseph River: Chronicles how the waterway has impacted our area over generations.

Answering the Call: The Olivers and World War I: Examine the impact of the Great War through the eyes of local industrialist J.D. Oliver and his family.

Polished in Public, Fierce on the Field: The AAGPBL: An in-depth look at the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, popularized in the hit movie "A League of their Own." The History Museum is a repository for the league.