Over the past year, we’ve invited visitors to imagine themselves in the role of the 500 to 600 government officials, military personnel, and civilians who, in the event of a nuclear attack on Canada’s capital during the Cold War, would have sheltered in the bunker for a 30-day lockdown period.
We put forward the following question for consideration:
If you could take only one non-essential item with you into the bunker, what would it be?
A. Board game / puzzle / card game: Try your hand at Cold War games and delve into the political and social climate of the era.
B. Box of art supplies: Use your creativity as a form of expression amidst a period of global uncertainty.
C. Book: Escape into a written world and gain different perspectives of the time.
D. Sewing / knitting / crochet kit: Stay warm within the surrounding concrete walls of the bunker.
E. Instrument: Master an instrument by practicing atomic tunes from popular artists of the Cold War.
F. Table game sporting gear: Bond with others in a friendly game of pool, darts, or table tennis.
G. Other: Let us know!
The results of this poll are in! While the options represent just a few of the non-essential items one might bring into the bunker, the responses offer intriguing insights into how we, today, imagine life in a Cold War crisis. By stepping into the shoes of those who would have taken shelter in the bunker, we gain a deeper appreciation of the personal choices, coping mechanisms, and small comforts that could have shaped their experience. We’re thrilled to spark these conversations and reflect on what they reveal about resilience, community, and survival in times of uncertainty.
Here is what was said:
For those who selected Other, many mentioned they’d bring their pets into the bunker — a choice that, unfortunately, wouldn’t have aligned with the protocol at the time. However, a stuffed animal would have certainly passed the bunker’s regulations! Other creative and thoughtful responses included an exercise bike, family photos, and, of course, chocolate (we completely understand!).
This poll serves as a compelling reflection on the human need for comfort and connection in times of uncertainty. As Canada’s Cold War Museum, we are dedicated to preserving the stories and artifacts that help us to understand the realities of Cold War preparedness and its lasting relevance.
Thank you to everyone who participated! We invite you to continue the conversation — look for this and other thought-provoking questions during your next visit to the museum!