Kenosha Military Surplus: Preserving The Past One Piece At A Time

Step into the trenches of history with this fascinating interview with the owner of Kenosha Military Surplus: Carl A. Bogar Jr.! From helmets to heartfelt stories, this shop doesn’t just sell artifacts—it preserves the past one piece at a time. Whether it’s uncovering historic treasures or sharing tales of his Traveling Museum Exhibits, this veteran historian takes his mission seriously, but not without marching to his own drum. Get ready to gear up for an inspiring conversation that’s packed with authenticity, dedication, and a surplus of passion!

Visit Kenosha: What inspired you to take over Kenosha Military Surplus in 2015, and how has the business evolved under your leadership?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: I had known Michael Schumacher for over 20 years and often helped him sell items on platforms like eBay. We discussed his eventual retirement, and he mentioned that I could take over the store when the time came. In the spring of 2015, Mike suffered a mild stroke while shoveling snow at the store. Although he made a full recovery, he decided it was time to retire and offered me the store in the fall. On October 31, 2015, he officially closed the store, and I reopened it the very next day, November 1, 2015. We worked out the financial details later.

A year later, I asked Mike if he had any regrets about selling the store. His only regret was not doing it sooner. While it will always feel like "Mike’s store," I have shifted the focus to historical items and authentic military surplus. In 2022, I was fortunate to buy the building from Jim Jones at a very reasonable price. This allowed me to move my other business, Historic Military Impressions, into the property as well.

Visit Kenosha: What sets Kenosha Military Surplus apart from other military surplus stores?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Surplus stores are a dying breed. When I was a kid, they were everywhere, but as the military changed its policies regarding civilian sales, many stores had to turn to aftermarket items, often made in China. This shift contributed to their decline.

"As a military historian with an MA in Military History from Norwich University, I focus on the hobby, the history, and the authenticity of militaria. I aim to keep 90% of the store's items priced under $100 to make history accessible to everyone. My goal is to inspire a love of history, not just make sales."

Visit Kenosha: Can you tell us more about your focus on authentic government-issued items and how you source them?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Sourcing is all about networking and connections. For example, my mother lives near a large flea market in Oldsmar, Florida, where I find unique items. I also have a customer from Israel who brings me items during his business trips to Chicago. I use every legal and ethical method available to find authentic pieces.

Visit Kenosha: How does the addition of the museum room and research library enhance the customer experience?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: The museum room and library allow me to share what I’m most passionate about—teaching others about military history and the importance of this hobby.

Visit Kenosha: What are some of the most unique or rare items currently available in the store?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Military helmets are among the most sought-after items. They’ve been a top seller for years and are often considered the original military collectible, dating back to the earliest conflicts.

Visit Kensoha: Can you share more about your Traveling Museum Exhibits and how they contribute to community education?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: The traveling museum exhibits add value to public events. We travel across the country during the summer months. In 2025, we’ll have exhibits from De Pere, Wisconsin, to Maryland. Our last major exhibit in Kenosha County was in 2013, during the Vietnam Wall event at Lake Andrea.

Our exhibits are housed in a GM Medium tent measuring 33 by 17 feet. For themed events, such as Vietnam War exhibits, we display over 500 authentic artifacts for guests to interact with. These exhibits honor the past while educating the future.

Visit Kenosha: What has been the most rewarding or memorable Traveling Exhibit you’ve organized?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: I’ve been doing these exhibits for 25 years, and each one is inspiring. My son, Elijah, has met seven Medal of Honor recipients, and we’ve touched thousands of lives through these events. Each interaction humbles me and reminds me of what’s truly important in life.

Visit Kenosha: What role does Kenosha Military Surplus play in preserving military history for future generations?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Military artifacts allow future generations to research specific periods and individuals. For example, I gave my daughter Rachel a sword engraved with its original owner's name. Through research, she learned about his life and service in the Great War. Authentic artifacts can spark a love of history in younger generations, offering hope for preserving our past.

Visit Kenosha: How do you collaborate with schools, scouts, and other organizations to teach military history?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Most collaborations come from word-of-mouth referrals. Once people see our work, they often invite us back for future events. In fact, we’re sometimes booked so far in advance that we have to turn down new opportunities.

Visit Kenosha: What aspects of your military service have most influenced the way you run your business?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: In 1997, after leaving the Marine Corps, I joined the Army Reserve and was sent to teach at West Point. That experience solidified my passion for teaching history. It led me to pursue a BA in History at Carthage College and set the course for my life’s work.

Visit Kenosha: Your personal awards and achievements are impressive. Which recognition holds the most significance for you, and why?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: None of them. I was illiterate until high school, but now I have five college degrees. My focus is always on the future and what I can achieve next, rather than dwelling on past accomplishments.

Visit Kenosha: What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a business focused on history or military artifacts?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Your business will succeed not because you excel at what you love, but because you can competently handle the tasks you dislike.

Visit Kenosha: Are there any new exhibits or projects on the horizon that you’re particularly excited about?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: In November, we acquired two G.P. Large tents, each 55 by 18 feet. These will double our exhibit space and allow us to add a small gift shop, enhancing the overall experience.

Visit Kenosha: How has running this business become a family adventure, and what role do your wife and children play in its success?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: When I’m away at exhibits, my wife, Susan, runs the store. My son Elijah, now a double major in History and Business Management at Carthage, has been helping since he was 12. My daughter Rachel, now 14, assists with exhibits and envisions a future where she and Elijah manage the traveling exhibits together.

Visit Kenosha: How do you balance honoring military history while making it accessible and engaging for younger generations?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Kids have been incredibly respectful of the artifacts. In 25 years, nothing has been stolen or broken by a guest. We prioritize interaction over preservation because the goal is to inspire a love of history, even if there’s some risk involved.

Visit Kenosha: What do you believe is the most misunderstood aspect of military surplus stores, and how do you address those misconceptions?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: Many people think military history is sanitized and free of uncomfortable truths. Items like German WWII artifacts remind us of past atrocities and why it’s crucial to remember and learn from history.

Visit Kenosha: What is the most important lesson people can learn from studying military history, and how does your business contribute to that understanding?

Carl A. Bogar Jr.: History teaches us to strive for better decisions by learning from past mistakes. Military artifacts serve as tangible reminders of the consequences of conflict and the sacrifices made.

Through this interview, we’ve learned how Kenosha Military Surplus goes beyond being just a store—it’s a living tribute to history, education, and community. Carl’s mission to preserve authentic military artifacts and share their stories is a battle worth fighting for. Supporting Carl and his business isn’t just about shelling out for a piece of history—it’s about enlisting in the effort to honor our past and inspire future generations. So, march on over to Kenosha Military Surplus, where history is always in stock, and help keep this mission rolling!

Visit Kenosha Military Surplus the next time you’re in Kenosha!
 

6527 39th Avenue

Kenosha, WI 53142

(262) 654-5335

hmihistory.com/

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