The GGRWHC has been a leader digging out the stories of both local and national women’s roles during WWI, the largest wartime mobilization in their young country’s history. On Wednesday afternoon at Calvin College, GGRWHC president Melissa Fox will present one last overview during this season. Catch her lavishly illustrated program!
In 1917 one third of US draftees failed their physicals. The establishment of woman’s committees by the Council of National Defense mandated American women to ensure the future fitness of the nation, at the same time they served the current war effort, and their long-time reform movements suddenly took off. The initiatives of Grand Rapids women created a home defense by guaranteeing wholesome food sources, raising healthy children, and protecting women in the industrial work force.
Discussing the pioneering efforts of local women, Melissa Fox will integrate local histories into the national story. This talk is part of a monthly Calvin College history colloquia series, whose lectures are free and open to the community. Come early to enjoy refreshments!
(https://calvin.edu/calendar/event.html?id=3e989ae5-549a-44a9-a8b8-2a692716250e)