"Dearest Pauline: A Local WWII Healer Writes Home"
A Special Veterans Day Performance
Letters by Dr. Price Hope Duff
Stageplay by Paula Hope Blackman
Original Music by Jordan Lehning and Caitlin Rose
In the closing days of WWII and in an attempt to stem the chaos, the United States sent the newly created Civil Affairs Medical Division into Western Europe. Charged with stabilizing the health of the civilian population, these men soon found themselves caring for the liberated prisoners of Hitler’s concentration camps.
Through a treasure trove of letters, artifacts and documents, we learn of this group’s efforts through the eyes of one of their lead physicians, Nashville native Dr. Price Duff. During his time in Europe, Dr. Duff wrote home regularly to his wife Pauline, sharing what he could of his mission and daily life for this vital cadre of healers.
The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County's new forthcoming division, the History and Culture Center of Williamson County, invites you to experience the last days of World War II through a dramatic music and multimedia presentation of Dr. Duff's letters to his Dearest Pauline.
The History and Culture Center will be an immersive, interactive exhibition experience serving as a gateway to middle Tennessee's historic people, places, and stories that engage, inspire, and impact our collective future. The Center is slated to open in the next few months, and Dearest Pauline will give a glimpse into the stories the center will safeguard and share with the broader public. Every Dearest Pauline ticket will include a complimentary ticket to the History and Culture Center, to be redeemed following its grand opening!
In honor of Veterans Day, all active and retired service members are encouraged to attend the performance for free. To do so, please visit the box office in person to receive your complimentary ticket.