National Cold War Center raises $400,000

The National Cold War Center (NCWC) in Blytheville recently raised more than $400,000 during its annual Cold War Gala and Cold War Conversation events earlier this month. The amount raised and the number of attendees set records.

“The success of this year’s events reflects not only record-breaking attendance but a deep interest in preserving and studying the legacy of the Cold War,” said Dr. Christian Ostermann, executive director of the NCWC. “With these funds, we’re one step closer to realizing a world-class museum that brings this pivotal chapter of history to life and connects with the next generation.”

Guests of the Cold War Conversation heard from Pavel Palazhchenko, former interpreter for Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev. Palazhchenko shared his firsthand perspective on the Cold War and his experiences interpreting discussions between Gorbachev and U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

The Cold War Gala was held in Hangar 207 at the Arkansas Aeroplex, formerly the Blytheville Air Force Base. Guests toured aircraft, participated in a live auction, and enjoyed live entertainment.

Funds raised will support the continued development of the NCWC — the nation’s only federally recognized museum dedicated to the Cold War. It was designated in 2023 by the 118th Congress as the federal museum of the Cold War.

“The ideological and geopolitical battle between capitalism and communism defined our global politics for almost half a century, resulting in a nuclear arms race, regional wars, and cultural and technological changes that remain vital here in the 21st century,” Ostermann said. “Our vision is for a state-of-the-art museum that tells the story of the Cold War as lived history and connects with younger generations.”

It will cost up to $30 million to complete the project, and a officials are hopeful construction could begin by 2027.