At the outset of World War I, there seemed to be a certain amount of concern by some well-meaning, but woefully misinformed, groups about North Dakota’s willingness to participate in the war effort. These concerns apparently stemmed in large part from the substantial numbers of people of German descent who had been immigrating to the state in recent years, many of whom appeared to be somewhat hesitant in acculturating to their new homeland.
Fortunately, such misgivings soon proved to be unwarranted. In recruitment, enlistment, and volunteering of military personnel, in production of foodstuffs needed for the war effort, in the collection of iron, steel and other needed war materials, North Dakotans proved themselves to be generous, ambitious, and inventive in meeting the needs of the nation. In the raising of desperately needed money to finance the war effort, North Dakotans again proved themselves to be better than anyone might have expected.
On Wed., April 11th, Dr. Barbara Handy-Marchello, former Chair of the University of North Dakota’s Department of History, and a highly regarded scholar, author, and lecturer will present an illustrated program reviewing the origins, operations and outstanding results of this vital war effort.
Open to the public, Admission Free, Reservations Not Required, Refreshments Provided
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
6:30 P.M.
Meeting Room A
Bismarck Veterans’ Memorial Public Library
515 North 5th Street
Bismarck, North Dakota