CALLING FOR ROSIE STORIES
We are thrilled to announce that we are now collecting Rosie Stories for our 8th publication. This is your chance to share your Rosie story. Every story matters, These are the stories that make history real, they deserve to be heard and
preserved.
Please see and complete this PDF for instructions and guidelines for story submission.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: November 15, 2026
Be sure to include the Biography Checklist and Email the SIGNED Checklist, story, and copies of photos to:
EMAIL:
RosieBiographiesARRA@rosietheriveter.net
OR MAIL TO:
ARRA Rosie Biographies
c/o Helen Sullinger
11292 Mourning Dove Lane
Frederick, WI 54837
Download this PDF for instructions and form.
Interview Tips for Rosie’s Oral History
To nudge deep stories out of Rosie’s, skip the rigid timelines. Weave sensory, scene setting questions directly into a natural conversation.
Phrases like “Tell me more,” “Walk me through that,” or “Talk to me about (blank)” are great ways to get those memory banks fired up.
Start with the sensory basics. Ask about
- The first shift
- The heavy feel of the uniform
- The smell of weld smoke or machine oil
- The deafening sounds of the factory floor at it peak
When the women offer modest summaries, zoom into specific “movie scenes.” Ask about:
- The weight of their tools
- Jokes shard among the ladies
- Songs hummed on the line
- The intense pride felt looking at a finished airplane or ship
Probe for the exact moment they heard the war ended, and encourage them to ground the session by letting Rosie hold an old photo or other special memorabilia.
Most importantly: embrace five seconds of silence after a question. Give these historic women the quiet space they need to mentally step back onto the assembly line and retrieve the details. Often, a warm smile of a gentle pat on the hand lets them know you’re listening
and waiting for their reply.
Think of yourself as a listener rather that an interviewer. They will feel the difference.