The Arkansas National Cold War Center announces partnership with Smithsonian ties
BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. – The National Cold War Center in Blytheville is now partnered with a prominent institution.
Center officials announced Tuesday that the museum is now a partner of the Woodrow Wilson Center in a three-year agreement. The Smithsonian Institution is a parent company of the Wilson Center.
The D.C.-based Wilson Center was chartered in 1968 by Congress to provide research-based nonpartisan and independent solutions to policymakers on various global issues. It houses the Cold War International History Project.
Officials said that as part of the agreement, Wilson Center History and Public Policy director Christian Ostermann will direct the National Cold War Center full-time, helping establish the museum’s presence, securing new funding sources and inspiring exhibit design.
Wilson also directs the Wilson Center’s Cold War history project.
“There are so many lessons that can be learned from the Cold War, especially as it pertains to our world’s current geopolitical landscape,” Ostermann said.
Wilson added that he looked forward to establishing the Blytheville museum’s role in history, education and as a tourism destination.
National Cold War Center board of directors chair Mary Gay Shipley said its development has been a goal for Blytheville and Mississippi County since Blytheville Air Force Base closed in 1992.
“This partnership with the world-renowned Wilson Center gives our efforts even more credibility and will help us establish the National Cold War Center as America’s museum of the Cold War,” Shipley said. “We look forward to welcoming thousands of people to our community annually to learn more about this important time in our world’s history.”
The first National Cold War Center exhibit opened in 2020, featuring history, memorabilia, and personal stories from those who served while Blytheville Air Force Base was active from 1942 to 1992. The base initially housed B-57 bombers but transitioned to a Strategic Air Command facility as the Cold War advanced.
Officials set museum completion for late 2027, with over 50,000 visitors projected for 2028.
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