May 4 Visitors Center
On Monday, May 4, 1970, students were protesting the expansion of the Vietnam War into Cambodia. The Ohio National Guard was present on campus and shot into the crowd of unarmed protestors, killing four students and wounding nine.
18 acres of the campus are designated as a National Historic Landmark Site to preserve the memory of May 4 and the lasting impact of that day. The Visitors Center on the site is made of three permanent exhibit galleries that provide context behind the event and highlight the reactions and repercussions of the shooting. Visitors also see an award-winning film about May 4, 1970, that uses video, photos, and audio from the day.
Visit our Tours page to learn more about what we offer
Hours & Closures:
Monday-Friday | 9 am - 5 pm |
Saturday | 1 pm - 5 pm |
Sunday | Closed |
The Center will be closed for Winter Break from December 15- January 12, but visits are available by appointment based on staff availability. Contact may4@kent.edu to arrange your visit. Regular hours will commence when the Spring semester begins on January 13. | |
The Center will be closed on Monday January 20 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day |