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World War I Activities
In the years 1913-1915, life began to change. After doing excellent work
in Ebell and other organizations, President Mrs. Lawton was called to
the strenuous activities of the Women’s war work. Her special talent for
organization made her invaluable in informing and systematizing the
various units into a working whole. She was appointed County Chairman of
the Women’s Council of Defense, and of Food Conservation, and was
Chairman of the first Liberty Loan Drive.
Upon solicitation of Mrs. Honnold of London, a contribution was made to
the fund for the purchase of artificial arms and legs for wounded
British soldiers.
Soon this country entered into the World War. Ebell hummed with the
activity of organization. Classes (now called Sections) in Red Cross
work and National Defense were formed. Undreamed of demands were put on
member’s time and energy.
To quote from Mrs. Grubb ( president 1917-1919), “Came a cry from the
Red Cross—‘Send us workers to make bandages, clothing and hospital
supplies.’ Promptly scores of Ebell women formed units and joined
classes where they stitched and knitted steadily through the long period
of the war. Came a frantic call from the Y.W.C.A.—‘Send us funds to
house and care for our girls doing service over there!’ The hearts of
our women responded instantly to the appeal. An organization was formed,
and swift moving teams of Ebell women canvassed the town in
record-breaking time and raised double the amount asked. Amount raised
$2,500.00.”
Appeals were made to raise money for the needs in Europe. Ebell women
rose to meet the demands. They made speeches in theatres and schools;
they marched in parades and worked in canteens. They sold Liberty bonds
and thrift stamps—they bought them too. The spirit of service pervaded
all the sections, binding them into a harmonious and smoothly
functioning body.
Ebell responded promptly to the request for phonograph records and
musical instruments for use in Army camps. Members purchased enough
Thrift Stamps, Liberty Bonds, and a Victory Bond, that, with the
proceeds of a luncheon in March 1919, the Society cleared enough to
support a French orphan for one year.
With the end of the war, came a period of adjustment—from war time
service to peace time pursuits. Money was contributed to European
Children’s Relief, to Americanization work, and the support of a French
orphan.
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