Women in Cryptology in WWII

History Talk: Sharing the Burden of Codebreaking during WWII

Join us at Wright Library for a livestreamed presentation from Jennifer Robertson of the National Cryptologic Museum in Maryland on the role of women in cryptology during World War II. Look for mentions of the Navy WAVES here in Dayton! You can also watch the program virtually by registering at wrightlibrary.org/events.

The Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) was established in 1942 as a U.S. Navy unit to allow women to serve in non-combat roles during World War II, filling critical labor shortages and freeing men for frontline duties. Drawn from across the country, WAVES recruits were often college-educated and selected for their technical aptitude. Many were assigned to Dayton, Ohio, where they worked at NCR's "Sugar Camp" assembling and operating codebreaking technology under strict secrecy. These women adhered to rigorous security protocols, unable to discuss their work even with family. Their tireless efforts in cryptanalysis played a vital role in the Allied war effort, yet their contributions remained classified for decades, underscoring the unsung heroism of their service.

Wright Library has also partnered with the National Cryptologic Museum (NCM) and Oakwood Unsung Heroes on an exhibit now open to the public - "Codebreakers: How Dayton Helped Win WWII." The exhibit features rare artifacts on loan from the NCM - including an Analog Enigma machine - and tells the story of NCR Engineer Joseph Desch, the WAVES, and the rigorous yet secretive routine of daily codebreaking efforts during WWII.

The exhibit, open during regular library hours, was also made possible by the National Aviation Heritage Area honoring Montgomery County as an American World War II Heritage designation and the Wright Memorial Public Library Foundation.

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Wright Memorial Public Library

Women in Cryptology in WWII is taking place at Wright Memorial Public Library, which is located at 1776 Far Hills Avenue in Oakwood. Wright Memorial Public Library - Books are only the beginning at Wright Memorial Public Library. So much to see, so much to do!