Codebreakers Series

Images representing codebreaking during WWII: soldier with an Enigma machine, rotors, WAVES handing decyphered message to military personnel

The Exhibit

Breaking the Code: Dayton's Secret Role in WWII

This exhibit explores the profound connection between cryptology in WWII and Dayton, Ohio - a topic largely unknown to the general public. The full extent of Oakwood's Joseph Desch's groundbreaking work, the WAVES stationed at Sugar Camp, or the operations conducted in NCR's "Building 26" is outlined in this exhibit at Wright Library.

See rare artifacts including an Analog Enigma machine, Bombe Rotor, and other codebreaking ephemera on extended loan from the National Cryptologic Museum. Interpretive panels tell the story of Oakwood native and NCR Engineer Joseph Desch, the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), and the rigorous yet secretive daily routine of decoding German war communication during WWII. 

Made possible with support from the National Cryptologic Museum, Oakwood Unsung Heroes, National Aviation Heritage Area honoring Montgomery County as an American WWII Heritage designation, and Wright Memorial Public Library Foundation.

Events

Wright Library invites you to a series of programs on cryptology - the creation and decryption of secret codes. Watch all programs at Wright Library livestreamed from the National Cryptologic Museum or register to watch virtually.

Upcoming Codebreaker Events

Events scheduled Fall 2025:

  • Solving the Enigma - September 11, 7 PM
    The history of the German cipher machine, Enigma, and how it was solved by the Allies.
  • Unbreakable: The Spies Who Cracked the Nazi's Secret Code - September 28, 2 PM
    A visit with Rebecca E.F. Barone, engineer and children's author

See all 2025 Codebreaker events >>

 

Join us!

In-person - Wright Library Community Room (seating limited to 80, first-come, first-seated)

Virtual option available - Online attendees must register to receive a link to the live stream. Find upcoming events and register >>

Past Codebreaker Events

Resources

Websites

  • Oakwood Unsung Heroes - dedicated to sharing stories of the Oakwood's extraordinary citizens - uncovering and celebrating their impactful contributions to both local and global advancements.
  • Dayton Codebreakers - A story so important it was secret for 50 years.
  • About the Bombe - Wikipedia article about the decryption device used at Bletchley Park, UK.
  • "No Such Podcast" - the official National Security Agency podcast about codemakers and codebreakers.

Books

Movies