FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2025
International exhibition Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. opens in Cincinnati for limited time
Over 500 original artifacts tell the stories of those lost, and those who survived, in Auschwitz
CINCINNATI – A new exhibition bearing witness to the realities of Auschwitz is opening at Cincinnati’s Union Terminal this Saturday. Through 500 original artifacts, Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. showcases the profound humanity of those who perished and the extraordinary resilience of those who survived one of the Holocaust’s most notorious camps. The exhibition, hosted by Cincinnati Museum Center and the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, is the largest collection of artifacts from Auschwitz outside of Europe.
Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. offers a poignant and sobering glimpse into the devastating reality of the German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz, and the story of its prisoners and perpetrators. The exhibition presents more than 500 original artifacts, including personal belongings, photographs, testimonies, and artwork, in a way that encourages reflection and remembrance. Visitors will encounter the profound humanity of those who perished and the extraordinary resilience of those who survived.
“This exhibition is a testament to the importance of remembering the Holocaust and learning from its lessons,” said Elizabeth Pierce, President and CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “We are honored to host Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. and to collaborate with the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center to bring this powerful experience to our community. It is crucial that we continue to bear witness to these events and ensure that they are never forgotten.”
The exhibition explores the complex history of Auschwitz through a chronological and thematic approach, beginning with the establishment of the camp by the German Nazis in 1940 and following its transformation into a site of immense suffering and death. It examines the Auschwitz perpetrators, the daily lives of prisoners, and the liberation of the camp in 1945. The exhibition also highlights the ongoing work of Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in preserving the site and educating the public.
“Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. is more than an exhibition; it is an encounter with history that demands our attention and reflection,” said Sarah Weiss, CEO of the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. “By bringing these authentic artifacts and stories to Cincinnati, we are creating an opportunity for deep engagement with the past and fostering a commitment to building a more humane future.”
The exhibition includes a wide range of artifacts, such as shoes worn by prisoners, a suitcase belonging to a victim, photographs taken by SS officers, and fragments of the barracks. These objects, combined with personal testimonies and historical context, create an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. is on view at Cincinnati Museum Center from November 18, 2025, through April 12, 2026. Tickets are available at cincymuseum.org.
About Cincinnati Museum Center
Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) is a beloved cultural institution that operates five distinct museums within Union Terminal, a National Historic Landmark. CMC’s mission is to create experiences that spark curiosity, inspire learning, and connect communities. For more information, visit cincymuseum.org.
About the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center
The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center is dedicated to educating the community about the Holocaust, honoring the memories of those who were lost, and inspiring people to act with courage, compassion, and a commitment to justice. For more information, visit holocaustandhumanity.org.