Unpacking History

Personal stories and documents from the Holocaust

An open vintage suitcase displaying historical artifacts from Holocaust survivor Alfred Bader, including family photographs, a portrait, and personal letters.

White vintage-style trunk filled with replica artifacts and educational materials from HERC's hands-on Survivor Trunk Program

About

HERC’s Holocaust Survivor Trunks bring history to life by immersing students in the personal story of a Holocaust survivor. Each trunk is carefully curated around an individual survivor’s experience and contains replica photographs and documents that tell their story.

Students become historians as they examine primary source materials, piece together timelines, and uncover the human experiences behind the history. This hands-on approach encourages critical thinking, fosters empathy, and makes the lessons of the Holocaust tangible and personal.

Trunks are available for classroom loan to schools throughout Wisconsin. Educators interested in bringing a trunk to their classroom can contact us.

In the classroom

Delve Deeper into Survivor Stories

Trace the journeys of individuals who endured unimaginable hardships to then rebuild their lives with incredible resilience.

Analyze Primary Sources

Develop critical thinking skills, media literacy, and learn to interpret historical evidence.

Engage in Meaningful Discussions

Explore complex themes and share their insights with peers.

romotional graphic with the headline 'For a Brighter Future: Give the Gift of UNPACKING HISTORY: Personal Stories and Artifacts from the Holocaust.' Features a vintage photograph of two smiling children and an open suitcase filled with historical documents, letters, photographs, and newspaper clippings from the Holocaust era.

Sponsor a trunk?

Support Hands-On Learning

Your support helps us preserve survivor stories and expand access to this meaningful educational resource. Contact us to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.