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Houston's Part in the World War
EDITED NOVEMBER 11,1919
ONE YEAR FROM THE SIGNING
OF THE ARMISTICE
MRS. W. M. BAINES editor"
Houston, Texas 1919
MRS. W. M. BAINES nee May Harper Baines^ Editor
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Mrs. H. F. Rinp;
Mrs. Robert Dancy Mrs. F. L. Dana Miss Katie Daffan
Dr. Hiram Harrison
DEDICATION
This book is dedicated to Houston's noble War Workers with the hope that it will help us know each other better and appreciate each other more.
Some have had slight mention in the daily papers, but many have done wonderful work without any notice whatever. The noble men. women and children who have been so self-sacri- ficing should have first place in our hearts and in the hearts of future generations, and how can we know them unless we are told of them ?
It is needless to say that all Houston was glad of an oppor- tunity to help. All true Americans feel that it was a just cause, and we are glad that our Country and our President is the world's champion Peace Maker.
On the morning of April 6, 1917, the citizens of Houston, Texas, were up early (much earlier than usual), every man, woman and child in the city were eager to see the paper. America had entered the World War.
America was needed across the water. Every heart throbbed and every eye was dim. For many months we had been work- ing strenuously at the Red Cross, hundreds of boxes of hospi- tal garments and surgical dressings had been shipped across the water. We had been giving what we thought was the best we had, we were sending our flour and sugar. We were deny- ing ourselves of many luxuries to help our neighbors in the Old World, but now the call was greater, we were to give our men !
Houston was not lacking in Patriotism. Fifteen thousand of our l)ravest and best donned the uniform of our country and told their loved ones good-bye. Mothers, wives, sisters and sweethearts bade their hearts keep still, for our men were needed, badly needed "Over There."
With tears in our eyes but pride in our hearts we waved them adieu. We gloried in the part they were to take even though we knew many would be called to make the supreme
sacrifice. We are glad that we have had a part in establishing a World Peace. We are glad that our great and noble Presi- dent, Woodrow Wilson, saw the need and issued the call for helpers.
We are glad to say that Houston did its duty ; not all could go but all could do something. Every man that could go, went. Every man and woman that remained put their shoul- der to the wheel. Every war measure, every call, went "Over the Top." Red Cross workers. Liberty Bond and Thrift Stamp sellers and buyers. Canteen Workers and Entertainers. Chair- men and workers alike strained every nerve to give the best service possible.
The home workers tried to be worthy of those who had been called to the front and we are glad of the assurance that our money, our food, our clothing and hospital supplies played no mean part in winning the war.
We are glad Houston had its part in the great struggle and we believe that our men have returned from the "Other Side" with a vision far more beautiful than which they conceived when entertaining dreams of conquerors and Liberty. They now have dreams of Home and Peace.
THE EDITOR.
With Stout, Courageous Hearts Women Surrender Home Duties to Engage in War Activities
By BELLE COSTELLO.
T^HE COLLECTIVE stoutheartedness and courage of the *■ women of this country are great war assets.
Add to the sum of these virtues the contributions of the women and the total is of great consequence.
\\'hen the first service flag was hung in the first Houston window by a mother who had contributed a son or husband to the war, the war work was more individual than collective.
Then gradually at the various social gatherings, the khaki- colored yarn and stout knitting needles began to supersede the gay-colored embroidery silks and equipment for fine needlework. Soon it came about that the social meetings merged into Red Cross gatherings at designated headquarters.
Clubs of many kinds, which for many years had bound friends together with strands of pleasures weaving, became all at once organizations given over to the fervor of wartime service.
Women who had spent their days in a round of pleasure suddenly became expert makers of surgical sui)plies and gar- ments for hospital use.
^\^omen who had never found time to leave their household duties and large families suddenly decided the day could be nicely divided between patriotic and home service.
Women stenographers, after a long day of office work, began going to Red Cross headc|uarters at stated nights a week to give time to the cause of mercy.
Members of the Business Women's Club, women who carry weighty affairs on their shoulders and have oflfices of their own, began meeting at their club rooms certain nights to make baby kits for the little ones of the war zone. The number of these ]:)arcels of clothing and necessities they have made for the ])athctic little morsels born in desolation is legion, and the work still goes on.
At the overseas relief headquarters women came for bundles of cloth which they fashioned into garments for women and children of the war zone. The boxes of warm garments and serviceal)le articles ^\•h!ch eager fingers made under the
direction of this department of war work have brought happi- ness to many a child or woman huddled miserably in rags in some ruined homesite "Over There,"
Treasures Are Sacrificed.
In order that the boys and men who rallied to the colors might have more comforts women literally ransacked their homes for clothing, furniture, anything and everything which they no longer needed or thought they could do without, and gave them to rummage sales for patriotic work funds. - Women also overhauled their jewel caskets and culled out old treasures and trinkets and gave them for a big melting pot whose contents would help outfit a branch of the service. Never has there been such literal examples of thrift and busi- ness enterprise constantly springing up — all for one purpose- to help win the war.
While conservation of everything has been a slogan, yet in no one thing has conservation been more in the hands of women than in the matter of food.
And how the women responded to all the calls to conserve a product in order to release more of it for the men and boys over there !
They spent hours in the hot summer days attending meet- ings where demonstrators, also giving their services to help win the war, cooked and baked with substitute products. Women made no murmur over the queer looking breads and other menu articles concocted out of heretofore unknown qualities and quantities. On the contrary, they made the substitute articles so tempting that the balance was main- tained. Indeed, the greatest single service woman has done for the country is helping rightly feed it. No woman can be called a slacker who did her part in food conservation.
Women whose gardening thoughts had never centered around anything save flowers made war gardens — even in their cherished and prosperous looking front yards. Some of them carried on garden campaigns and made canvasses of districts, urging all dwellers thereof to go fc^rth and dig and hoe. They distributed thousands of packages of seeds through the National League of Woman's Service, and in this connec- tion also urged intensive "back yard chicken raising."
Helping to Sustain Army Morale.
Having given her own son or husband or brother or loved one as a contribution to help win the war, the mothers and
wives and sisters left behind sought to sustain the morale of courage of the other men and boys who came to the canton- ments by providing some of the comforts of home at canteens. The old Light Guard Armory, under the direction of the women of clubs and organizations of the city became a favorite place for the khaki clads to spend afternoons or even- ings when allowed camp leave. They found there motherly women to visit with them. They found home-made cakes and pies and other dainties and diversions, and sometimes dancing. In the winter especially the canteen is a delightful place, with the open fires and festoons of yupon and holly and winter Southland flowers. And the women have never faltered in taking their turn at baking and providing, and giving their services that some boy or man away from loved ones might be made to lose that "lump in the throat" feeling, or, what is still greater, know how his donning of the khaki was appre- ciated.
Ready to Go the Limit.
Of the work of women in a financial way columns and col- umns could be written. They gave and gave and gave again.
Women of clubs and organizations lined up solidly to help float all the Liberty Loans. They drove their cars to every part of the country to hold meetings in the interest of war finances. They gave up days to the work of inspiring others to buy from some booth in public places. They gladly made over old garments or wore them as they were, to buy another bond or more War Savings certificates. They were liberal in their passing out of nickels and dimes to children to do little odd jobs so that they might buy Thrift Stamps.
There was hardly a man or boy who followed the colors but at some great cost to some woman. With many it was only peace of mind. With some it meant an entire reorganization of life. Many mothers once moving daily only through the precincts of their homes, boarded the street cars at an early hour with parcels of lunch, bound for a long day at some new task. They talked it over with their boys and sent them away with their blessing that the world might be made safe for other mothers and daughters and sisters and wives.
And after a long day away from the old familiar comforts they had the dread always, day and night, of that telegram which might come from the war department at Washington beginning "We regret to tell you" —
Forever was there the dread that at anv moment the white
'star of the service flag might turn to gold. This is where -women score the greatest in helping win the war, for all changes, all hardships, all sorrows they bore bravely and pa- tiently; they learned to smile outwardly while sorrowing in- wardly and their philosophy and good temper and the spirit -with which they met each situation added so much more to the fighting strength of the country.
Women stood shoulder to shoulder with men in everything .possible except actual fighting in this great world war. There were, those who rallied to the colors as far as the government would permit and served as nurses or helpers in many ways just behind- the battle lines. In summing-up all that women have done to help win the war no one can say they have not appreciated and sought to uphold our national duty in every possible manner.
" Mrs. Belle Costello is one of the gifted writers of Texas. She has been for several years connected with the editorial staff of the Houston Chronicle and is at present society editor and feature writer for the Chronicle. During the war Mrs. Costello worked in the place of a man released for service, covering the regular "news beat" of a reporter. She is a member of the Texas Women's Press Association, the College Women's Club, Houston Pen Women's Club and State President of the Inter- national Sunshine Society. She is a graduate of Albion (Mich- igan) College and Conservatory of Music and did post-gradu- ate work at the University of Michigan. Mrs. Costello taught -piano in the State Normal of Michigan for several years before turning her attention to newspaper work. Contributions from her pen in the way of verse or short stories frequently appear in well known magazines.
War Mothers Association.
Every war has given rise to many organizations whose ob- ject has been to maintain principles for which men have sacri- ficed their Hves to perpetuate, but this is the first war that has evolved a War Mothers Club.
This association of mothers of men who were engaged in the world war for liberty sprang up almost simultaneously all over the country, very few of them knowing at the time of organizing that there was another of like character in exist- ence. In olden times men went off to war and left the wo- men at home to maintain the crude state, leaving them to bear all the hardships of war but allowing them to share in none of its glory. Rut today this regime has changed. In the late war there were women who remained at home carry- ing on the work of their men folks in a brave and faithful manner, but there were others who participated in those activ- ities which brought them in almost as close contact with sights and danger-thrills of war as tliose of the men. And while the Red Cross and Salvation Army lassies were doing all they could over there for the comfort of the boys, the War Mothers over here were banded together in hopes that their united strength would send waves of moral and spiritual influence across the water that would aid the American boys to soon prove the deciding factor to win the war. And in no way was this influence exercised to better advantage than by importun- ing the relatives and friends and sweethearts of soldiers to send chatty, cheerful letters to overseas men.
General Pershing himself frequently stated that nothing kept up the morale and fighting capacity of his men as did cheerful letters from home.
When the soldier read a letter telling him that mother was well and hopeful or that wife felt sure that the war would soon be over, that the kiddies were bursting with health and were looking for his early return with a whole lot of souvenirs, it would double his determination to hurry up and finish the disagreeable task and hurry home.
At the first national convention of War Mothers held in Indiana, Edmund \'ance Cook, conceded to be America's great- est war poet. i)ronounced the gathering to be one of the most wonderfully unique ones he had ever attended. And Senator
12 WAR MOTHERS
Watson, in his address to them on the same occasion, said : "I believe as truly as I stand in your presence tonight, that if this great organization be wisely used, that if it be kept free from politics, it will be one great agency which will with Chris- tianity bind the nations together and bring them to one com- mon level, chainless and fetterless forever. And therefore we should support and will support this wonderful agency."
The Houston Chapter of War Mothers held their first meet- ing May 25, 1918, at which time were registered 58 charter members. At the present time they have nearly three hundred members. From this time they met twice a month until the armistice was signed. After cessation of war they held only monthly meetings.
During the war this organization accomplished splendid work. They stimulated donations for war work by taking part in a body in parades formed for that purpose. It was through the generosity and encouragement of one of its members, Mrs. W. B. Sharp, that placed the canteen for enlisted men on its feet. And it was through the efforts of another prominent war mother, Mrs. Walter McClellan, that a cofTee percolator and a piano-player were installed in the canteen for the pleas- ure of the soldier boys.
The War Mothers gave a liberal sum toward the fund raised by the Houston Chronicle for Christmas presents for the boys in France, contributed toward the Jewish relief fund and others, assisted in all the drives for the Government and the needy in Europe and took a prominent part in the Welcome Home celebrations given by the citizens of Houston in honor of the overseas boys.
Under the direction of Mrs. M. A. Toy, an indefatigable worker for the Association, thousands of Welcome Home stickers were pasted at the depots, in hotels, on the windows of business houses and upon the shields of hundreds of auto- mobiles.
The War Mothers had also the honor of sponsoring a most impressive memorial given December 29, 1918, at the City Auditorium in memory of the boys who had made the supreme sacrifice. And one of the most appropriately unique features of the exercises was the Message of the War Mothers, "L,et This War End War for Liberty Is Not Enough," delivered by their president, Mrs. F, Iv. Dana.
It was through the effort of this organization that Houston now boasts of its first flagstaff. This beautiful welcome-home symbol serves not only the purpose of unfurling Old Glory to
WAR MOTHERS • 13
the breeze, but makes for the pedestrian a safer way to pass a most dangerous crossing.
Now that the war is over the mothers are turning their minds to the problems that confront one in the reconstruction period.
The organization has been asked to use its influence with their congressmen to support legislation that will correct the present court martial system regarding the soldiers who are in Federal prisons in this country and in European prison camps, perhaps innocent or unjustly sentenced.
And the mothers are thinking of ways and means to make life more pleasant for "reconstruction" men. Ways and means to restore shattered nerves, minds to their normal poise, and bring back lustre to the eye that was dimmed by the sights it witnessed in "No Man's Land."
And thus the scope of work for these mothers of men whose sons fought and died that the world might live in peace is gradually changing in character, but is none the less vital than that which they so bravely undertook in the trying days of actual warfare.
WAR MOTHERS ROSTER
Mesdames —
F. W. Alsates, R. W. Adams, F. W. Alcala, Frank Andrews, C. G. .Mexander, Searcy Baker, W. P. Bryan, H. Booth, H. L. Bennett, Ben Bering. Beeler, Adeline Bade, C. W. Ijen- nett, Jessie Boyd, Mary Bryan, Geo. H. Brown, S. R. Boyd, Miss Maggie Pearl Boyd. A. L. Bright, Horace Booth, Edna Carter, Annie Coffin, M. C. Cooper. T. W. Cockrum, S. F. Car- ter, Mattie Caruth. J. IT. Clare, B. E. Carson. C. F. Diltz, F. L. Dana. John Dow. T." Daly, L. J. Di.xon, F. J. Diamond. J. N. O. Duncan. Fritz M. Dyer, Flora C. Drohan, J. J. Dowling. C. K. Darling, May Edwards, Violet Edwards, C. ^I. Enimott. J. J. Fry, Susan Fearhoke, C. W. Frazee, Emma P. Fo.x, Carrie Forest, Ida Fromm, Birdie Gillespie, C. E. Godbey. J. W. Greenwood, M. L. Gourley, W. A. Garrett, K. Groth. N. P. Gideon, Mary Green. I. C. Griffith. Anna Elizabeth Green, Henry Heinze. Hood, C. A. Harveson. J. W. Hart- ley, Tony Heinze. C. F. Hughes. Mary Holtkamp. Geo. Hill, Sr., C. J. Hooper, E. B. Harlow, J. C. Hammock, Fred Isenhour, K. E. Ilsiey, R. E. Illfrey, E. S. Jackson, Effie Jamison. A. C. Joines. C. S. Kaw. H. H. Kuhlman, George Kuhlman, Keough. R. W. Knox, .-Mice Knapp, J. Lehan. Charles Law- rence, C. M. LawShae, G. Ligenfelter, Mary Lamb, G. A. Lim- roth, Emil Lipper, F. H. Lowe. A. Martin. Geo. McCain, S. O. Mullenix, W. D. Monroe, H. D. Morse, M. S. Michael, Frank
i4 " WAR:MOTHERS
Moore, W. A. Moore, A. Magee, J. F. Marx, Sadie Mather, H. W. Millard, E. L. Moore, J. McCutcheon, J. E. McAshan, R. L. McLennon, W. R. McLellan, J. A. Morgan, G. L. Mur- phy, W. A. McCoy, James B. Murphy, Miss Aletha Marten, Miss Laura Marten, J. H. Morris, Cora B. Norman, Clara Null,
A. H. O'Connor, R. H. Oakes, H. M. Peck, J. C. Plummer, M. Power, W. J. Parker, J. A. Painter, Katie Peterson, B. L. Palmer, Nellie Puddy, H. Rosenfield, J. A. Raney, J. S. Rig- den, J. M. Rockwell, H. F. Ring, Allen Rice, C. H. Strickland, Julius Schaefer, Tom C. Swope, A. F. Sharpe, H. G. Symms, P. M. Shoquist, Kathryn Soule, Schumaker, H. Singleton, W,
B. Sharp, S. B. Snow, D. W. Stockridge, Mrs. Shoveling, W. M. Simmons, Eva Silber, J. Saper, D. E. Simmons, J. M. Stay- ton, Aloph Schuster, Edward Secor, Mary E. Sterrett, Anna J. Sterrett, R. A. Stacy, E. C. Thompson, G. A. Taft, W. A. Thei- len, A. E. Turner, W. H. Thorne, H. P. Walsh, J. W. Wilder, R. K. Wright, Thomas Wilson, A. Y. Wood, S. V. Wagner, Ben Wade, Mrs. Williams, N. Wolf, G. A. Wilson, R. H. Wimp. S. M. Wilson, Wm. Weaver, S. F. Williams, H. E. Wood, C. P. Wilson, S. PI. Berlocher, C. N. Fisher, R. J. Pounds, C. C. Wacey, Evalena Landis, Ben Jacobs, J. G. Gerson, M. A. Toy, Rosa Gause, Jessie E. Stokes, Aukenbruck, J. W. Neal, Phillip Carson, M. E. Benson, Mollie Reagan Watson Mobley, G. R. Loehr, Ethel B. Teeple, Fred M. Soland, Louis I. Soland, Ed. Harlow, May Locke, G. D. Parker, A. Wallace.
HONORARY Mesdames Etta Gleason, Susan Van Liew, H. B. Fall, O. M. Davis, R. E. Patterson, M. A. Wescott, Bernard A. Riddley, T. B. Sebastian, Nellie Baker, J. H. Shumaker, Harris, Breaux, Paul Israel, J. W. AVilkinson, W. M. Baines.
WAR MOTHERS
15
THOUSANDS CHEER AS OLD GLORY FLOATS FROM PEAK OF THE VICTORY FLAG STAFF
Houston's Soldier Memorial Dedicated With Impressive Ceremonies, August 10, 1919
The thrill that is only felt once in a lifetime and then when it comes from principles of patriotism and the love of home, filled the breasts of thousands who watched as Old Glory slowly ascended to the breezes Sunday evening on the Victory Flag- staflF. No greater resi)onse could be asked, and no more patriotism shown than when the vast crowd cheered and sang.
"Let it be the compensation of that wonderful organization of \yar Mothers, for their efforts have been successful, and a lasting commemoration of victory and recognition of American
16 WAR MOTHERS
boys' sacrifices on the blood-stained fields of France," said Mayor Amerman, as he stood beneath the color standard, held in the hands of a boy scout.
The ceremony was opened with prayer by Chaplain Mar- shall, and immediately after the prayer the band played "The Stars and Stripes Forever," the music being furnished by the Musicians Local No. 65.
Colonel David M. Duller then delivered an address, and when asked to tell of some of his war experiences, he said, "Let the boys in your homes tell of these things. I know not where to begin. For no man saw the same horrors, and the same sacri- fices, and each has a different story to tell."
After the song, "The Long, Long Trail," the song bringing up old memories to the world war veterans, for it was a fa- vorite battle song with them, Rolland Bradley, a member of Houston Post, American Legion, made an impressive address. He spoke of the victories yet to attain, and of the struggle that the whole world had gone through.
"I am glad," he said, "to see that the inscription on this plate of bronze says, 'World War,' and not 'Great War,' for it was not a great and grand war, but a world war, of terror and human suffering."
Mrs. ^luiTilPDana, president of the War Mothers, was then introduced by Mrs. M. A. Toy, a war mother, and master of ceremonies, Mrs. Dana spoke of the flag, and its new lesson that it should henceforth teach to young America. "The red of the flag shall tell of the blood that was spilled on the battle fields of France by our American boys. The white shall be the tears shed by the mothers as they followed their sons in spirit across the seas, and over the blood-stained fields they fought on. The blue of the flag stands for hope," she said, "hope that as each day goes by America will come nearer to her aim of freedom and the things Liberty stands for."
WAR MOTHERS
17
MRS. H. F. DANA
Mrs. Dana was organizer and president of the War ]\Iothers' Association. She is the mother of J. C. Crow- ley. Mr. Crowley enlisted with Dr. Cody's 357th Ambu- lance Corps, which was made up of Houston men. They served constantly for two years on the battle front in France in the 90th Division. Mrs. Dana is a woman of wonderful ability in many respects. She helped with all the drives for war funds and was either chairman or vice- chairman of all the home- coming receptions for the men. She, as president of the War Mothers, assisted by Mrs. M. A. Toy as chair- man and many other promi- nent mothers, raised funds to erect the l)c; Main Street and McKinney Avenue.
Mrs. Dana is an authoress and preside Pen Women.
lUl
nt
iful II, of th
;ig stal e Hou
r on ston
TO MOTHERS OF "GOLD STARS"
O ye Mothers brave and tender. The best of service you could render W'ere the gifts you gave so free, Braving dangers over sea. Surely you have done your part. And we know it wrung your heart.
You gave your "Star," your greatest treasure. To save your country was your pleasure, And "His" grace will make you strong To meet "him" some dav with a song.
— I\Iay Harper Baines.
18
WAR MOTHERS
MRS. R. E. PATTERSON
Mrs. R. E. Patterson was organizer and first president of the Navy Mothers, and is one of Houston's most earn- est and dependable clubwo- men. She was president of Child's Welfare League, and her work for better babies was something really worth while. She was secretary of the Robert E. Lee Chapter U. D. C. and was State audi- tor of the Texas Division U. D. C. for three terms. She was recording secretary of Current Literature Club for two years and recording sec- retary of Fannin School Mothers Club, also recording secretary and one of the most prominent workers of Texas Woman's Fair Asso- ciation. She is a member of Third Ward Civic Club and historian of the Axson Club. Mrs. Patterson's eldest son, R. E. Patterson, Jr.. enlisted in Texas Naval Militia March, 1916. Was called into service April 6, the day war was declared, and left that night for Charleston, S. C, and was aboard the "Mystery Ship," the Chas. W. Whit- temore, in Bermuda during the world war. Mrs. Patterson immediately put every ounce of strength she possessed in the home work through her organization, the "Navy Mothers." She worked constantly for the Red Cross, both with surgical dressings and knitting; also worked with many other activities. The following women were charter members, assisting Mrs. Patterson to organize : Mrs. R. E. Patterson, Mesdames T. W. Shearer, Louise Rowan, J. S. Ford, A. L. Jackson, M. B. Kelly, C. C. May, W. A. Goodson, R. W. Morris, J. S. Pierce, C. J. Parker, L. M. Randle, J. C. Ridley, E. Schleeter, J. M. Stacy, L. A. Smith, A. Winoski, W. C. Wallace, C. Thompson, Henry Martin, J. V. McSpaddin, W. Johnson, E. F. Heinze, R. W. Aiken, C. G. Byrne, J. R. Fisk, John Fisk, J. H. Rothwell, Ned Montgomery, E. C. Schramm, R. Seitsinger, D. Attaway, C. H. Williams, W. E. Kollman, L. Lohse, G. W. Huffsmith, V. H. Treat, N. E. Burris, A. Block, L. Taylor, T. B. Lewis, Diamond, R. A. Davis, B. Sydnor, G. A. Taft.
WAR MOTHERS 19
THE MOTHERS OF THE NAVY
The Mothers of the Navy was organized in July. 1917, with Mrs. R. E. Patterson as first president. Their object was to enlist the mothers, wives, sisters and other relatives of the men of the United States Navy, Marine Corps and the Naval Aviation Corps into a united organization to promote the phys- ical, moral and spiritual welfare of the men, both at home and abroad.
An auxiliary of the Red Cross was formed and wonderful work throughout all the departments was done by the ladies.
Mrs. M. B. Kelley was elected president of the Mothers of the Navy in June of 1918 and the good work, already well ad- vanced, progressed rapidly under Mrs. Kelley's direction. New members were added to the list and one hundred and fifteen names were enrolled.
The entire output of the local Red Cross machine knitted socks were sent to the Mothers of the Navy each week to be finished and pressed. 1500 pairs, all told, were returned from their work-room in the Bender Hotel ball room. Rummage sales were held and other means were employed by which enough money was held in the treasury to meet the nunuMous demands.
During the suninu-r drive man\- thousand dollars worth of War Savings Stamps were sold by the ladies from the various banks and stands established by the city. Five hundred dollars was invested in Liberty Bonds, three hundred and fifty dollars in War Savings Stamps, making a total of eight hundred and fifty dollars of Government securities bought by this organiza- tion. Number of sailors have been helped individually, com- fort and cheer sent to ships and assistance given to families of men in service. Money and boxes of clothing were sent to the baby hospital in France, goodly sums have been given to Red Cross, Salvation Army, United War Mothers, drouth suf- ferers, flood victims, city hospital, etc. Several musical instru- ments, books and magazines were sent to the border. Victro • las were sent U> hosj)itals and ships. A liberal donation was sent to Dr. Hurd for her hospital work in France.
They were made a chapter of the National Woman's Naval Service organization which has a membershi[) of 250,000, with head(|uarters at Washington, D. C.
Mrs. Morris, one of the Mothers of the Navy, sent her six sons to fight for the L'. S., one of whom gave his life to the cause.
The accompanying ])icture was taken of the "Christmas Cheer Committee" on their way to Galveston hospital.
Mrs. W. V. Lawrence is now president.
^^'AR MOTHERS
21
MRS. M. A. TOY
Mrs. Toy was one of Hous- ton's most earnest workers. She played an important part in all our war activities and was in charge of many of our important movements. She was chairman of the Czecho-Slovak relief drive and helped with all other drives. She took especial in- terest in the home-coming of our men and was chairman of the beautiful flag staff erected on Main Street and McKinney Avenue in honor of our boys who will never come back.
Mrs. T(jy is the mother of First Lieutenant E. A. Toy,
Adjutant 111th P'ield Signal lirigade, 36th Division. All who
worked with Mrs. Toy learned to love her.
MRS. HAL C. PECK
Mrs. Hal C. Peck, or Mrs. Mamie Downard Peck, assisted in organiz- ing the Houston War Mothers and was its first recording secretary. She was vice-president of Houston Pen Women and is the author of many short stories and sketches anfl is also a writer of poems. She is present and ])ast poet laureate for six different organizations, has acted as president of eleven different clubs and has been recording and corre- sponding secretary for both local and State organizations. She is a club organizer and has served as State chairman of numerous com- mittees. The following poem was written .April 27, 1917, some days after the enHstment of Hal C. Peck in First Division, Ambulance Co. No. 2. Young Peck was not quite 19 years old at time of enlistment, went over with Pershing's first 20,000 men. Saw a year's service, twice gassed with chlorine and mustard gas. blinded, in seven hosjjitals in France, two in
22 WAR MOTHERS
America. Discharged February 14, 1919, three-fourths dis- abled. Was one of the stretcher-bearers that carried Captain Archie Roosevelt off the field, and the first disabled overseas soldier to return to Houston.
Oh, he was her prince, the little prince of her day and nightly
dreams, With his rose-flushed cheeks, his merry laugh, and curls with
golden gleams ; Such a bonny boy with loving heart and fascinating ways, He made her life a prideful dream, as he grew with passing
days ; And all too soon, the dimpled babe grew up a tall young lad. And still he v/as her prince of dreams, although she felt half
sad. For life was calling him from her, the bonny, merry boy. Who all his life had filled her heart and home brim full of joy.
And then there gathered o'er the land a war cloud dark and
grim. That called the lads throughout the land and sent its voice to
him ; Her prince of dreams, heart of her heart, must answer with
his blood, Poured from his merry, loving heart, in patriotic flood. If Uncle Sam and Country should need the sacrifice. No matter if wrenched heartstrings was the mother's fearful
price. She'd bravely face the issue, with no outward show or qualm. And send her little prince of dreams, a gift to Uncle Sam.
WAR MOTHERS
23
First Military Funeral in Houston Caused by the World War
Full military honors were accorded the remains of \\'. H. H. Trumbo (son of W. H. and Mrs. Isabell Trumbo McLaren), a soldier of the United States Naval Corps, whose death occurred at the Naval Hospital at Puget Sound July 5. He had been in his country's service two months, having enlisted shortly after the dec- laration of war. The funeral ser\ - ices were conducted by the Re\. John E. Green, who spoke in touch- ing terms of the young hero. Full military honors were accorded every branch of the service being repre- sented, including the United States ^- "■ "• Trumbo Arm}-. Grand Army of the Republic and Women's Relief Corps. The ladies of the First Aid Legion, who marched on each side
who tired a salute at the grave where ta])S were sounded. Inter- ment was in lloll}"wood Cemetery. A touching feature of the sad event was the dedication of a beautiful American flag under whose shelter- ing folds our soldier boy spent his last night on earth. The banner is the propert}- ol" the Woman's Relief Corps and will be further conse- crated by dra])ing the bier of mem- bers of the Grand Army of the Re- public when for them taps are sounded. The heritage of the young man was i)atriotisni from a long line of Revolutionary sires, a father who wore the blue from '61 to '65, and a mother descended from Irish patriotism and Scotch Covenanters and whose heart embraces ever\- l)oy who wears our countrv's uniform.
Father an 1 Mother ot W. H. H. Trumbo
24
WAR MOTHERS
Mrs. H. L. Bennett
Mrs. Anna Micheal
Mrs. E. D. Harlow
MRS. E. D. HARLOW
Mrs. E. D. Harlow has lived in Houston for 28 years. She helped organize two Sunday Schools ; through her work and influence a nice church was built by the Werline Methodist Mission. She solicited the material and Mr. Harlow contrib- uted his services as contractor. The Harlow School was named for them and Mr. Harlow again contributed his services as contractor. Mr. Harlow also contributed his services as con- tractor in building the Red Cross Hut at the Central Depots which is the best Red Cross Hut in the South and where more than 80,000 soldiers were served by canteen workers. Mrs. Harlow and her two daughters, Misses Ruby and Lola Har- low, helped with Red Cross and all relief drives, entertain- ments, etc. Mrs. Harlow is also a war mother.
MRS. GEO. KUHLMAN
and only child, Edwin Louis Kuhlman, taken when only four years old. He served his country with the 11 1th Field Sig- nal Battalion, 36th Divi- sion.
HOUSTON'S GOLD STARS 25
i^^^^^J^^^^Jf.
HOUSTON OFFICERS KILLED IN ACTION
Captain John R. Rurkett. former Houston lawyer, was com- manding Company C, 399th Infantry, when killed in action in the Argonne drive November 1, 1918.
Lieutenant Frank Murchison Moore. 88th Aero Squadron, son of Mrs. Frank Moore, Houston, was killed near Fismes, France. September 2. 1918. Lieutenant Moore was in a battle plane which was downed after a battle with eight (^.erman planes.
First Lieutenant K. L. Riesner, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Riesner, 61 Young Street, of the 79th Company. 6th Regiment of Marines, killed in action June 14, 1918, in Relleau Wood.
Captain Little Harrison, son of Dr. and Mrs. R. FL Harrison, 2151^ Dennis Avenue, of Battery E, 119th Field Artillery; se- riously wounded July 12, 1918. in the shelling of Bellersdorf, in Alsace, dying the morning of July 14. in a hospital at ^lor- villars, one mile distant.
Lieutenant J. McKenzie Mcintosh of the 357th Infantry, Houston boy who was killed in the St. Mihiel drive September 13, 1918. Lieutenant Mcintosh had just been transferred to the 357th and was killed on his first time "over the top."
Lieutenant Trafton Hathaway of the 90th Aero Squadron, formerly of Houston, who was killed in France June 25. 1918.
Lieutenant Cowart. Aviation. Son of Mrs. T. E. Cowart. Missing in action since September 17, 1918. Awarded the Croix de Guerre for conspicuous bravery in action.
Lieutenant Geo. H. Bissonet. Aviation.
Lieutenant Thomas R. Rrailsford. U. S. N.
26 HOUSTON'S GOLD STARS
HOUSTON'S SONS WHO DIED IN THE SERVICE OF THEIR COUNTRY
(By Courtesy of Houston Chronicle)
ACRES, CHAS. H. (USA), died of disease. ACUFF, NORMAN D. (USM), died of disease. ACUFF, ROBT. E. L. (USM), killed in action. ALEXANDER, JOHN W. (USA), died of disease. ALEXANDER, LESLIE (c.USA), died of accident. ALEXANDER, WESLEY (USA), died of disease. ALLEN, SHELLEY (USA), killed in action. ALTIC, RUSSELL (USA), died of disease. ANDERSEN, OSCAR (USA), died of disease. ANTHONY, LANSING (USA), died of disease. ANDERSON, OSCAR (USA), died of disease. ANTHONY, LANSING (USA), died of disease. AUTRE Y, MAX (USA), lost aboard ship. BANKS, JOHN L. (USA), killed in action. BANKS, WM. W. (USA), killed in action. BARKDULL, EARL (USA), killed in action. BARNES, S. L. (USA), killed in action. BARTLETT, H. B. (USA), killed in action. BETHEA, CECIL G. (USA), killed in action. BISSONET, GEO. H. Lieut. (Avia.), died by accident. BOYLE, WM. H. (USA), killed in action. BRELSFORD, THOS. R. Lieut. (USM), killed in action. BRAY, FRANK H. (USA), killed in action. BRAY, W. C. (British Army), killed in action. BREWER, HOWARD M. (Avia.), died of disease. BRILEY, FELIX H. (USA), killed in action. BROOKS, CLARENCE (USA), died of disease. BROWN, WILL (USA), missing in action. BURKETT, J. R. Capt. (USA), killed in action. BURKHART, FRANK P. (USM), died of disease. BURTON, N. N. (USA), died of disease. BYRNE, HUGH O. (USA), died of wounds. CANFIELD, HENRY R. Sgt. (USA), died by accident. CARTER, EDDIE P. (USA), died of wounds. CAYLOR, JOS. B. (USM), killed in action. CHANDLER, W. E. (USA), died of disease. CLARK, JOHN F. Sgt. (USA), died of disease. COLLIER, MARION M. (USM), killed in action. COLLINS, JOHN (USA), died of disease.
HOUSTON'S GOLD STARS 27
COLLINS. WM. M. (USA), died of disease. CORONAS, PETE (x\via.), died of disease. CO WART, WM. B. Lieut. (Avia.), missing m action. DALY, JOHN (USA), killed in action. D'AMICO, SAME (USA), died of disease. DEY. CLAUDE M. (USM), killed in action. DISMUKE, THOS. (USN), killed in action. DORBANDT, JUSTIN (USA), died of disease. DUNLAVY. H. D. (USM), killed in action. DWINXELL, XOR^IAN E. (USA), killed in action. EDWARDS. LAWRENCE J. (c.USA), died of wounds. ELLIOTT, KARL L. Lieut. (USA), died of disease. EVERTON. M. D. (USA), killed in riot. Houston. FASHION, AUG. T- (USA), died of wounds. FEAGIN. RICHARD H. (USX), died of disease. FLOYD, LEWIS (USM), died of disease. GIBSON. R. M. Capt. (USA), died of disease. GIEGELT, EMIL (USA), died of wounds. GLEXX, ELSA L. (USA), died of disease. GLOGLER. LEE G. (USA), died of disease. GOXZALES. ALPHOXSE (USA), missing in action. GRATEHOUSE, JOHX W. (USM), died of wounds. GREEX, THOS. Sgt. (USA), died of wounds. GREGG, DONALD (USA), killed in action. HALL. WM. B. (USM). died of disease.
HALPERX, LAWRENCE (USX), lost on ship.
HARRIS, GEO. (USA), died of disease.
HARRIS. JOS. J. (USM), killed in action.
HAMMOXS, CARROLL C. (USA), killed in action.
HARRIS. SAME L. Sgt. (USA), died of disease.
HARRISOX. LITTLE Capt. (USA), died of wounds.
HATHAWAY. EDWD. T. Lieut. (Avia.), died by accident.
HAWKIXS, lOHX P. (USA), died of disease.
HICKS, lv\RL (USA), died of disease.
HICKS, THOS. B. (US.-X). died of wounds.
HILDEBRANDT, CARL (USA), died of disease.
HOLLIMOX, FLOYD G. (USA), died of disease.
HOPKIXS. FRED B. (USA), killed in action.
HUBBELL. WILLIS L. (USA), missing in action.
JACKSOX, E. D. (USA), killed in action.
JEXSEX. LAWREXCE G. (USM), killed in action.
JOHXSOX. RALl'H A. (USA), died on shii)l)oard.
JOIXES, CARSON D. (USA), killed in action.
JONES, WM. J. (USA), died of disease.
KUHLMAN. JUSTIN (USA), died of disease.
LAMBERT. G. C. (USA), died by accident.
28 HOUSTON'S GOLD STARS
LATIMER, OSCAR (USN), died of disease. LAYTON, ROBT. E. (USA), missing in action. LEE, RANDOLPH T. (USN), died of disease. LEMKE, COLIN G. (USA), died of disease. LENAHAN, EDWD. D. (USA), died by accident. McCALL, ANDREW (c.USA), died in action. McDonald, ALLEN J. (USA), died of disease. McINTOSH, JOHN McK. Lieut. (USA), killed in action. McNElL, H. LEE, Dr. (USA), died of disease. McREYNOLDS, T. L. (USN), died of disease. MARTIN, JACOB, Jr. (USA), died of disease. MAYES, C. W. (USN), died of disease. MEEK, CHESTER A. (USA), killed in action. MEINEKE, MARTIN B. (USA), died of disease. MELNAR, FRANK E. (USA), died at sea. MICHEL, WM. J. (USA), missing in action. MILLER, CHAS. E. (USA), killed in action. MILLER, JAS. E. (USA), killed in action. MILLS, OLLIE (c.USA), killed in action. MOORE, F. M. Lieut. (Avia.), killed in action. MOORE, THOS. W. (USA), died by accident. MORRIS, ROSCOE W. (USN), died by accident. NAPLAVA, DOMINICK (USA), killed in action. NELSON. ALBERT P. (c.USA), died of disease. NETTLETON, ROBT. E. (USA), died of disease. NICHOLSON, CLAUD (USA), killed in action. NOGLE, RUSSELL B. (USN), died of disease. NORTON. GEO. P. (USA), killed in action. NORVICK, SAME (Avia.), died by accident. OGLE, CHAS. W. (USA), died of wounds. OLLRE, JOS. E. (USA), killed in action. O'REILLY, W. M. (USM), killed in action. PATTERSON, CHAS. H. (USM), died of wounds. PECORE, R. C. Sgt. (USA), died of disease. PEDERSON, GEO. (USA), died of disease. PIZER, NATHAN L. (USM), killed in action. PLUMMER, ROY S. (USM), died of disease. OUINN, T. H. Sgt. (USA), died of disease. RIESNER, EDWD. L. Lieut. (USM), killed in action. RILEY, JAS. A. (USA), died of disease. ROBERSON, MESHACK (USA), died of disease. ROMACK, FRANCIS R. (USA), killed in action. RUSSELL, CHAS. E. Sgt. (USA), died of disease. SANDERS, WM. L. (USA), died of disease. SCHULER, MARION (USA), died of wounds. SHOCK, ERNEST D. (USA), killed in action.
HOUSTON'S GOLD STARS 29
SIMMONS. CLAUD C. (USA), died of disease. SIMMONS, WM. L. (USA), killed in action. SINGLETON, DRUE Sgt. (USA), died of disease. SMITH. SHELBY (USA), killed in action. SNOVER, OSCAR (USA), died of disease. SOCIA, JOS. P. (USA), killed in action. SOUTH, IRA W. Sgt. (USM). died of disease. STACKHOUSE, B. C. (USA), died of disease. STEDMAN, JAS. M. (USA), died of disease. STEPHENSON, JAS. T. (A via.), died by accident. STEVENSON, HARRY L. (USA), killed in action. STUEBNER. THEO M. (USA), died of disease. STYERS, JAS. L. (USA), died of disease. SWEENEY, WM. W. (USA), missing in action. TAGGART, HARRY (USN), lost at sea. TEETSHORN, RAY G. (Avia.), died of disease. THOMPSON, JOHN P. (USM), killed in action. TOMPKINS, ROBT. W. (USA), died of wounds. TRUxMBO, FRANK (USA), died of disease. TRUETT, WM. (USA), died of disease. TUCK, ROBT. E. (USA), died of disease. TRULEY, WESLEY (c.USA), killed in action. VETUSKIE, FELIX (USA), drowned. VICK, CHAS. (USA), killed in action. VLAHOS, LEONIDAS (USA), killed in action. WAGNER. LELAND J. (USA), killed in action. WARRACH, DA\-1D H. (USA), died of disease. WAUGH, TERRELL T. (USM), killed in action. WEBER. JOS. C. Sgt. (USM), died of disease. WESTCOTT, CHAS. H. (USA), died of disease. WESTLEY. WM. (USA), died of disease. WINKLER, MILTON J. (USA), killed in action. WISDOM. PIERCE A." (USA), died of wounds. WOGGINS. L. (USA), killed in action. WOOD, CHAS. H. (USA), killed in action. WOOD, THOS. W. (USA), killed in acti.;n. WUENCHE, GUSTAV A. (USA), killed in action.
*1iV*1^^**'^^
30
HOUSTON'S GOLD STARS
OUR GOLD STARS
In Memory of Our Boys Who Made the Supreme Sacrifice That Freedom Might Not Die
Boys, brave-eyed boys, with tender hearts and hands ; Boys, straight and tall, who laughed and loved and sang; Who cheered and went out to war- torn lands, Whose brave smiles strove to hide the parting pang ; They went to fight for mothers of the world, For children like the children whom they knew ; They marched away, and now war's flags are furled. And now their stars are gold which once were blue.
They leaped into the air on pinions wide ;
They marched through all of war's red hell and reek ; By night and day they combed the ocean tide,
They gave their strength to Freedom growing weak ; They died for us in lands remote and far ;
They laughed and took the battle to the foe ; They gladly gave their lives in Freedom's war ;
They went as far as human strength may go.
They went as far as human strength may go.
In Freedom's cause they might not be denied. On every field they stopped the charging foe,
Waved on the flag they loved, and, waving, died. For them we smile, but yet our tears will start —
What they fought for our hands and hearts shall hold. Their stars are graven on the Nation's heart ;
Their stars which once were blue but now are sfold.
-Judd Mortimer Lewis.
RED CROSS
31
THE HOUSTON CHAPTER AMERICAN RED CROSS
DR. HIRAM HARRISON Chairman of Production
At tliL- annual nu-cting-. March 13, 191?, a representative of the Xational Red Cross was i)resent and ori,Mnizatii)n was begun for meeting the war emergency.
A membership campaign was launched which resulted in a membership of 4400 by July. 1917. Mrs. Wallace Ralston was chairman of the committee. 'I'he women began at once under the direction of Mrs. S. 1^.. Dabney to work upon equipment for a Navy Base Hospital. By the end of May Mrs. Dabney reported that "surgical dressings and hospital supplies were completed enough to fill several boxes."
New by-laws contemplating the larger work were adopted June 4 and the organization which administered the affairs of the Chapter during the war was elected as follows :
Hon. Picn Campbell, Chairman.
Dr. Hiram B. Harrison, \ice-Chairman and Chairman of Military Relief.
Mr. DcW'itt C. Dunn. Treasurer.
Mrs. M. P. Ostrow, Secretary.
Mr. A. S. Cleveland, Chairman of Home Service Section.
Mr. F. M. Law, Chairman of Finance Committee.
The Executive Committee elected were : Mrs. N. E. Meador,
Mrs. Chas. Golding, Mrs. Luke C. Bradley, Mrs. W. E. Jones,
32 RED CROSS
Miss Minnette Paine, Mrs. Max Taub, Mr. Herbert Godwin, Mr. F. M. Law, Mr. DeWitt C. Dunn, Mr. A. S. Cleveland, Mr. Abe M. Levy, Dr. Hiram B. Harrison, Dr. J. Edward Hodges, Hon. Ben Campbell, Mr. R. C. Kerr, Dr. Thomas Clayton, Mrs. Denton Cooley, Miss Florence Sterling.
On June 19, it was voted to organize the Houston Ambu- lance Company, No. 36, with Dr. Claude C. Cody as captain.
Miss Minnette Paine was appointed chairman of the Surgi- cal Dressings. Mrs. N. E. Meador, chairman of the Purchasing Committee and of Hospital Garments, and Mrs. W. E. Jones, chairman of the Knitting Department.
Supplies for the Navy Base Hospital Unit were completed by the middle of July, 1917, This consisted of complete equip- ment for a hospital of 250 beds, comprising 632 garments and 29,072 surgical dressings at a cost of $3196.10.
The Chapter had been crowded out of the rooms of the Fed- eral Building by the growth of the work and by the courtesy of Mr. Jesse Jones we occupied in June, 1917, the entire tenth floor of the Goggan Building; moving again to larger quarters, occupying the third floor of the Woolworth Building, again by courtesy of Mr. Jones in December, 1918.
The work expanded rapidly and under the direction of Mrs. Ralston and later Mrs. Denton Cooley, the following auxil- iaries were organized:
In Houston :
Allen School, Mrs. Dan C. Smith, Chairman.
Amoma Auxiliary, Mrs. M. M. Roensch, Chairman.
Beneke Memorial Church, Mrs. W. Curtis, Chairman.
Bering Memorial Church, Mrs. C. H. Frederick, Chairman.
Bon Ami, Mrs. D. W. Clink, Chairman.
Brooke Smith, Mrs. M. F. Davus, Chairman.
Calvary Red Cross, Mrs. W. D. Hendrix, Chairman.
Camp Logan Auxiliary, Mrs. Anna Bishop, Chairman.
Carpenters Ladies No. 6, Mrs. W. J. Heath, Chairman.
Catholic Woman's Auxiliary, Mrs. Rutherford, Chairman.
Central Presbyterian Church, Mrs. Talbert, Chairman.
Child's Welfare League, Mrs. Geo. S. Warner, Chairman.
Clara Barton Auxiliary, Mrs. A. L. Nelms, Chairman.
Community House, Mrs. R. S. Sterling, Chairman.
Council of Jewish Women, Mrs. Jos. Goldman, Chairman.
Crockett School, Mrs. McGow^en, Chairman.
Central Christian Church, Mrs. C. W. Fellows, Chairman.
Christ Church, Mrs. McNeill, Chairman.
Colored Y. W. C. A., Miss Ruby Craig, Chairman.
Dow School, Mrs. J. L. Alexander, Chairman.
RED CROSS 33
Eastern Star, Houston Chapter, Mrs. H. C. \\'ebb. Chairman.
Ellington Field, Mrs. H. C. Elkins, Chairman.
Evergreen Auxiliary, Mrs. R. Watkin, Chairman.
Eastern Star, Ransford Chapter, Mrs. M. Kimpton, Chair- man.
First Baptist Church, Mrs. ^^'. E. Leslie, Chairman.
First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mrs. J. H. Hermann, Chairman.
Fullerton School. ]\Irs. \V. L. Shepherd, Chairman.
First Methodist Church, Mrs. John T. Scott, Chairman.
First Presbyterian Church, Mrs. J. Forbes, Chairman.
Fannin School Mothers Club, Mrs. S. M. Lister, Chairman.
Hawthorne School Mothers Club, ]\Irs. C. H. Davison. Chair- man.
Hyde Park, Mrs. H. M. Cummings, Chairman.
Housewives' League, Mrs. Ida Fromm, Chairman.
Mrs. Horton's Auxiliary, Mrs. Horton, Chairman.
Italian Red Cross \\'orkers, Mrs. V. Navarro, Chairman.
Ima Hogg x\uxiliarv, Miss Ima Hogg, Chairman.
I. D. A. Q., Mrs. C. B. Glover, Chairman.
Incarnate Word Academy, Mrs. David Daly. Chairman.
Jewish Literary Society, Miss Lillie Belle Emden, Chairman.
Knitting Room No. 2, Mrs. Howard Hughes, Chairman.
Knitting Room No. 3, Mrs. Frank Moore, Chairman.
Kendleton Grove Auxiliary, Mrs. A. 'M. Lacy, Chairman.
Longfellow School, Mrs. Emma Gaines, Chairman.
Loyal Workers of St. Paul Methodist Church, Mrs. F. W. \\'illiford. Chairman.
Lady \\'ashingt()n Chapter, Mrs. E. V. Hardway. Chairman.
Lamar Sclujol Mothers Club. Mrs. R. C. Culpepj^er. Chair- man.
Magnolia Park Au.xiliary, Mrs. Burchtield, Chairman.
McAshan Missionary Society, Mrs. M. C. Welch, Chairman.
McGowan School, Mrs. V. T. Matthews, Chairman.
Monday Night Auxiliary, Mrs. H. A. Vallas, Chairman.
McKee Street Auxiliary, Mrs. W. E. Mitchell, Chairman.
The Miriams, Mrs. F. B. Wilkes, Chairman.
McKnitt Chapter, D. A. R., Mrs. C. H. Gass, Chairman.
North Side Auxiliary, Mrs. W. E. Mitchell, Chairman.
Navy Mothers League, Mrs. R. E. Patterson, Chairman.
Oakhurst Auxiliary, Mrs. W. F. Ames, Chairman.
Oaklawn-Eastwood, Mrs. W. A. Cockrell, Chairman.
Priscilla Club, Mrs. L. O. Nairn, Chairman.
Pythian Sisters, K. P. Hall, Mrs. Hattie O'Donncll. Cliair- man.
Patriotic League, Miss Agncse Carter, Chairman.
34 RED CROSS
Rice Institute Annex, Mrs. Sara Stratford, Chairman.
Rice Hotel Auxiliary, Mrs. N. E. Meador, Chairman.
Royal Neighbors of Aline Camp 2677, Mrs. F. E. Woolridge, Chairman.
Reading Club, Mrs. John Hume, Chairman.
Rice Hotel, Surgical Dressings, Miss Ada Carlton, Chairman.
Second Christian Church, Mrs. J. W. Sharbeart, Chairman.
South End Auxiliary, Mrs. P. T. Beach, Chairman.
Second Presbyterian Church, Mrs. F. W. West, Chairman.
South End Study Club, Mrs. W. E. Southward, Chairman.
St. Paul's Methodist Church, Mrs. Seth Ward, Chairman.
St. Paul's Gleaners, Mrs. E. C. Lane, Chairman.
St. Agnes Academy, Mrs. David Daly, Chairman.
Settlement House, Mrs. Robert Balsam, Chairman.
Stenographers' Auxiliary, Miss Middleton, Chairman.
Texas Woman's Fair Auxiliary, Mrs. W. M. Baines, Chair- man.
Taylor School, Mrs. W. H. Williams, Chairman.
Texas Review No. 62, W. B. A. O. T. M., Mrs. Alice Bod- deker. Chairman.
Thursday Auxiliary, Mrs. H. K. Read, Chairman.
Theosophical Society, Mrs. Betty Robertson, Chairman.
The Unitarian Church, Mrs. D. W. Whipple, Chairman.
Trinity Lutheran Church, Mrs. B. Althans, Chairman.
Tuam Baptist Church, Mrs. J. A. Mobley, Chairman.
U. D. C. Auxiliary, Mrs. J. F. Burton, Chairman.
Westheimer Church, Mrs. C. A. Harveson, Chairman.
Woman's Club, Mrs. W. G. Love, Chairman.
Woman's Medical Society of Harris County, Mrs. W. Rals- ton, Chairman.
Women's Relief Corps, Mrs. Sophia Harper, Chairman.
Woodland Heights, Mrs. Y. M. Martin, Chairman.
Young Ladies of Second Presbyterian Church, Miss Anna Rickets, Chairman.
Houston Heights was organized as a branch with Mrs. G. W. Hawkins as chairman. The branch developed several active auxiliaries, raised the larger share of money for its supplies and did a large amount of excellent work.
The North Side Branch was organized with Mrs. M. J. Heaney as chairman, with several auxiliaries and a force of workers which achieved splendid results.
The central work-rooms teemed with the activity of hun- dreds of volunteers daily and knitting was issued to indivi- duals throughout the county.
The grand totals of achievement were as follows : Sursfical
RED CROSS 35
dressings. 1,511.528; hospital garments, 177,102; knitted ar- ticles, 29,004; refugee clothing, 11,285.
The Home Service Section of the Civilian Relief was early organized under the direction of Chairman A. S. Cleveland. The following figures give some idea of the work accom- plished :
10.712 families have been dealt with, either in giving infor- mation and advice or financial help, or both.
A total expenditure of S23.745.65 has been made in grants and loans.
The depot or "Canteen" service under the direction of Mrs. Frank ^Moore was organized in the spring of 1918, to cheer the men going into camp, to God-speed the trained soldiers going to the front and to welcome the returning heroes. The bless- ing of the canteen service cannot be reported. The following will give a faint idea :
The work began with a desk at Grand Central Station, May 23, 1918, with at least two ladies meeting all trains at both sta- tions upon secret information from the railroads. This work opened with Mrs. Frank Moore, commandant, with three first lieutenants and forty-two members.
In the first five months the committee served approximately 35,000 soldiers en route at a cost of $1500.00. The service con- sisted of cigarettes or tobacco, candy and fruit, post cards, stamped when necessary, lead pencils, magazines, newspapers and good cheer in abundance. At one time 2000 troops on the way to embarkation were served in a pouring rain. Sometimes on a hot summer afternoon the gracious reception consisted of iced watermelons. Trains were met at midnight and one morning, without advance notice, breakfast was served to 465 men. For the sick there was lemonade and nursing. P^abies were tended for soldiers' wives while the mothers shopped with their husbands. During the influenza epidemic anxious parents or wives were taken to the sick at the base h()si)ital and tender ministries extended to the bereaved as they started upon the lonely journey homeward.
In her November report, the Commandant says : "We have served 6000 men during the month. Tliere is another class of men passing through, those who have offered their lives — who have suffered hardship and faced death. These are returning, many of them recovering from wounds, shell shock and gas. These men need more than our usual service. They need warm foods, delicate things, a place to rest for the hours they must stav in Houston."
From this time (jn the attention of the canteen has been mainlv to the men demobilizing. Early in January the long
36 RED CROSS
hoped-for canteen was completed, "the best, most home-like and prettiest hut this side of New York."
Mrs. Moore gave up the work in May, 1919, and Mrs. W. E. Gilliland was elected Commandant.
The hut was delayed through the difficulty of securing per- mission from the railroad authorities to build it. It was com- pleted, however, in time for the demobilization and has per- formed a most valuable, patriotic and loving service. 101,000 men received service during the first year and the expense, including the cost of the hut, was $8755.83.
Instruction for women began very early under the direction of Dr. Belle C. Eskridge in First Aid, and Miss Retta Johnson and Mrs. H. C. Gass in Elementary Hygiene and Home Care of the Sick.
337 women completed the course in First Aid and 235 women completed the court in Elementary Hygiene and Home Care of the Sick.
The Junior Red Cross of Harris County was organized in January, 1918. Almost all schools came in 100 per cent.
The school management co-operated to the fullest extent incorporating Red Cross work as a part of its curriculum in Manual Training, Domestic Science and Domestic Economy. The whole comprised patriotic education and production of hospital supplies. A large amount of excellent work was done. When the armistice was signed in November, 1918, there were 1932 children outside of Houston who had raised $483.16 and in the Houston schools 12,230 children who had raised $2753.21.
Mrs. Chas. Scholibo, Junior Chairman of the county, with the County Superintendent and Miss Lottie Turley, Secretary, was the committee for the rural schools, with the teachers as the chairmen of the auxiliaries in their respective schools.
The committee for Houston consisted of Mrs. Chas. Scholi- bo, president ; Supt. P. W. Plorn, vice-president ; A. S. Cleve- land, treasurer; Miss Ada Gause, secretary, and Mr. E. M. Wyatt.
The Juniors of the Houston schools made 74,889 surgical dressings and a great variety of other articles aggregating 79,113. In the Manual Training department the boys made 135 bedside tables and thirty chests for army cooking utensils, and a large number of checkers, checker boards and tables for the local camps.
The Juniors of the rural schools manifested their patriotism in many ways. They made hospital garments and rugs, and several of the schools planted, tended and harvested Red Cross
RED CROSS 37
cotton patches from which they earned good sums for the work of the Chapter.
Two campaigns were conducted for used clothing for ref- ugees, the first under the chairmanship of G. S. Patrick and the second under the Chapter Chairman, ^^^ A. Paddock. Many thousands of pounds of excellent clothing for men, women and children was contributed.
A unique feature of the reclamation work of the Chapter was conducted by Mrs. B. Watkins in the gleaning of many cotton fields after the harvest by school children and others in the fall of 1917 and the planting, cultivation and gathering of a cotton patch of several acres, aided by Mr. Asa Read, cotton broker, which netted $569.40 for the Chapter. The gleanings of the Almeda district netted $148.20 and of Alief $219.22. There were many small amounts.
Under the direction of ]\Ir. E. K. Dillingham, chairman, a campaign for fruit pits and nut shells for the making of char- coal for gas masks was conducted and hundreds of ]K)unds were gathered. Tlic campaign was in lull swing when tlie armistice was signed.
A Motor Corps was organized in the summer of 1918 under the direction of Mrs. C. C. Crawford. Women becoming num- bers volunteered their time and the service of their cars, in- cluding maintenance. The Corps consisted of 49 members and the following will give some idea of the service rendered:
To Salvage Dei)artnu'nt \\v(\ Cross 187^j liours
To ^'. \\'. C. A 82
To Housing Bureau of W. C. C. S 127 K' "
To Canteen 168
To Convalescent Home 35 Yz
To Home Service Plouston Chapter 482]/^
To Home Service Southwestern Division 367^/2
To Red Cross Headquarters 140 V2
To Home Service Medical Division 142j/2
To U. S. Bureau Allotments and Allowances 15
To Visiting Committee 12^/2
To A. R. C. Field Director 505 |^
To Quartermasters Department 6^
To U. W. W. Cami)aign 129>4 "
2401 >/> " Unfler the management of the College Women's Club, Dr. Xorma Ellis Israel, president, and Mrs. C. C. Crawford, secre- tary, a Red Cross Salvage Department was organized in the sj)ring of 1918. Mrs. C. S. Kaw has been the eflficient manager of this de])artmcnt, which has had a remarkable career in
38 RED CROSS
"turning trash into cash." All varieties of cast-off articles, and some articles of considerable value, have been gathered and sold and the result to the Chapter has been $4400.00 at a modest cost for maintenance.
The spirit of the women of Houston expressed itself beauti- fully in their response to the Camp Logan appeal to assist in mending uniforms, and thousands of uniforms were reclaimed through their handiwork at a time when this work was of such magnitude that it could not be cared for by the army tailors. Overcoats, coats and trousers were patched and buttons sup- plied that uniforms might again be issued when the govern- ment was unable to clothe the fast multiplying recruits.
The magnitude of the Houston Chapter, American Red Cross, is perhaps best shown in the financial report below:
Receipts — From April, 1917, to June 1, 1919:
Auxiliary contributions $ 29,125.14
Donations 13,423.60
Memberships 100,683.84
Salvage 4,400.00
1917 War Fund 246,808.72
1918 War Fund 464,789.36
Miscellaneous 8,354.58 $867,585.24
Disbursements :
National Red Cross $612,467.74
Raw Material 122,062.42
Home Service, Canteen and Sundries 58,718.42
Office Expense 2,644.13
Clerical Expense. 4,669.01 $800,561.72
Balance in Bank $ 67,023.52
At the annual meeting in November, 1918, the following were elected as an Executive Committee : Mrs. Luke C. Brad- ley, Mrs. Denton W. Cooley, Miss Florence Sterling, Mrs. Max Taub, Mrs. C. D. Golding, Mrs. W. E. Jones, Mrs. N. E. Mea- dor, Miss Minnette Paine, Hon. Ben Campbell, Robert Boggs,
A. S. Cleveland, E. K. Dillingham, DeWitt C. Dunn, W. S. Farish, Herbert Godwin, F. M. Law, Abe M. Levy, Dr. Hiram
B. Harrison.
After several unsuccessful attempts on the part of the Exec- utive Committee to secure a chairman of the Chapter on Feb- ruary 10, 1919, Mr. W. A. Paddock was elected chairman, the old officers having held over until that date. Besides the chairman the new officers elected and beginning service Feb- ruary 10 were: Mrs. W. C. Heyne, vice-chairman; Mrs. A. S. O'Brien, secretary; DeWitt C. Dunn, treasurer.
RED CROSS ^^
Dr Hira,n B. Harrison is pastor of «« F*-* C°ngregational
cessor until February, 1919.
rlpfatip-able in their devotion.
Mrs N E ileador as purchasing com.nittee and superv.sor of .vomen-s\ork directed .omen's work "•-' J~\'f,f^^
Miss Minnette Paine, as soon as war "-7 .^ec ared at her
w°th rare skill. Her able attendants were M,s. \\ . t. He>ne. ns, ector, ^v ith a splendid corps ot nistrnctors
A rs W E Tones organized the knitting depart.nent and carried U fo^wi^d -th^^reat success yidchng^t 0 Mrs. .C.
reXgfd'fol^c: rSefs l^'^l-ri!;:- conducted this "S?:r M^^irr r :: r thf::w.ng department .nd
ii£:l'r;:d'rierw:;r:;'^r^rw;-^c^i:f ;
Chi e urepared the garments from the raw materials.
wi h a ^otrpo^tuM^l women, with their own ha,Kl^^^^^^^^^^ the large output of our sewmg rooms wUh great ..
'"if wor-MTe'^mr!- volumes to enuuK-rate the large n„n„,er of
''\T";;n\"rm9"a':l'm:nt was started in the Chapter to org m e-classes, throughout the county, in ^^^^^^
h ™n?erof hL^ County, the only charge being 45 cM, for the textl>ook. The instructors are paid by the Chapter.
40 RED CROSS
On October 1st, 1919, classes in Home Hygiene began with five hundred women enrolled. Other classes are forming and will start in fifteen days.
The Houston Chapter has sent to Goose Creek and Crosby a Public Health Nurse, paying all expenses. Her services will be free to the people and she will promote interest in child welfare.
NORTH SIDE BRANCH RED CROSS Mrs. M. J. Heaney, Chairman
This Chapter was organized March 5, 1918, with a registered membership of 212 North Side women. It was through the efforts of Mrs. M. J. Heaney that this branch was organized and she was elected chairman; Mrs. O'Donnell, first vice-presi- dent; Mrs. Jones, second vice-president; Mrs. O. W. Staley, secretary, and Mrs. W. E. Gilliland, treasurer. Splendid work was done by this Chapter. 32,000 surgical dressings were made and more than 800 hospital garments, also much knit- ting was done. They also did much canteen work and assisted with all membership drives, Liberty Bond and Thrift Stamp sales.
Mrs. Heaney alone put in over 2000 hours in the Red Cross rooms and was often heard to say that her time belonged to her government. Mrs. Heaney has only one child, Harry Heaney, who is proud of his mother and her patriotic work, and he has a right to be.
SOUTHLAND STUDY CLUB
Southland Study Club Auxiliary gave splendid service at Red Cross headquarters and also donated a considerable sum of money for Red Cross work. Mrs. W. E. Southward, president ; Mrs. R. H. Spencer, vice-president ; Mrs. C. L. Belz, secretary; Mrs. C. H. Stanclifif, corresponding secretary; Mrs. Lewis Fogle, treasurer. Some other members were Mrs. D. D. Hutch- inson, Mrs. F. C. Jones, Mrs. Paul Kayser, Mrs. C. S. Preston, Mrs. M. B. Stokes, Mrs. Burton Thorning and Mrs. W. W. Westgate.
RED CROSS
41
CANTEEN SERVICE, AMERICAN RED CROSS
Houston. Texas. Date of Enrollment. May 28, 1918
Mrs. W. E. Gilliland, Com- mandant.
Major Adele Townes, First Assistant.
Major Esther Guenard. As- sistant.
Mrs. F. L. Jones, Secretary.
Captains : Mrs. Hans Busch, :\Irs. David Duller. Mrs. H.
C. Bancroft, Mrs. Rufus Cage, Mrs. E. A. Coel. Mrs. Myra Gammill. ]Mrs.
D. M. Tourtellot.
First Lieutenants, First As- sistants to Captain
Lieut. Mary Miller
Mrs. H. K. Read
Mrs. Moses
Mrs. G. S. Warner
Mrs. Charles King
Miss Florence Ward
Mrs. M. S. Kerr MRS. w. e. gilliland
Mrs. Ashlev Denton Chairman Red Cross Canteen
Red Cross Canteen
42 RED CROSS
Canteen Workers
Mrs. W. E. Gilliland, Commandant; Mrs. Adele Townes, Major ; Mrs. Esther Guenard, Major ; Mrs. Hans Busch, Cap- tain ; Mrs. Kennerly, Mrs. Dailey, Mrs. King, Mrs. Bancroft, Mrs. Read, Mrs. Moses, Mrs. Black, Mrs. Coel, Miss Barr, Mrs. Cage, Mrs. Ashley Denton, Mrs. A. R. Nunn, Mrs. Whit- mer, Mrs. Hawley, Mrs. Mausbach, Miss Olchewske, Miss Mil- ler, Mrs. Gaskill, Mrs. Harris, Mrs. Postum, Miss Ward, Mrs. Shutt, Mrs. Gammill, Mrs. M. S. Kerr, Mrs. Decker, Mrs. W. P. Richardson, Mrs. Sidney Huston.
Canteen work at the depots was originally under the leader- ship of Mrs. E. C. Moore. May, 1919, Mrs. W. E. Gilliland was chosen as commandant. She had worked with Mrs. Moore and was chosen for her splendid executive ability.
Not enough can be said of these wonderful canteen workers. Many have done well ; these ladies have truly excelled. Only think of women getting up all times of the night to go through cold and rain to meet trains and serve coffee and sandwiches to the boys. The work has been exceedingly heavy since Mrs. Gilliland took charge, for not only all the home-coming men had to be fed but many thousands that were passing through.
When the Czecho-Slovak troops passed through there were two other troop trains the same day, making in all over three thousand men. A number of these workers at that time served 36 hours without rest.
During the home-coming period a constant stream of sol- diers poured in and out of the hut and the neat, efficient way they were served was truly marvelous.
From May to October there were 65,330 soldiers, sailors and marines served, sometimes with chicken dinners, ice cream and home-made cakes ; hot biscuits were served almost every morning. Altogether 3,493 gallons of coffee were served, 3000 gallons ice cream, 7000 gallons iced drinks, 44,784 cigarettes, 20,000 postal cards, 75,000 full meals.
Mrs. Gilliland is also a church worker, president of the Wednesday Club, chairman of Equal Suffrage at North Side and she helped with all drives for Red Cross, United War Work, Liberty Loan, etc.
RED CROSS
43
ROSTER OF RED CROSS INSTRUCTORS
Miss Minnette Payne
Mrs. W. C. Heyne
Miss Frankie Heyne
Mrs. Carl H. Ries
Miss Zillah Short
Mrs. R. S. Sterling
Mrs. W. S. Hunt
Miss Ada Carlton
Mrs. C. B. Harwood
Miss Margaret Dubose
Mrs. Luke C. Bradley
Mrs. W. E. Jones
Mrs. \\'. Palmer Hutcheson
Mrs. J. C. Hutcheson
Mrs. \V. A. Sherman
:Mrs. Richard Edwards
Mrs. Emily S. Evans
Mrs. Mary C. Grace
Miss Kathleen ]\Iunn
Mrs. David Procter
Mrs. H. B. Sewall
Mrs. Alfred R. Washington
Mrs. Edith Goar
Miss Mary Taylor I'.onncr
Miss Susie Creightcm
Mrs. J. E. Fisher
Miss Rachel iMalavinsky
Miss Leona Stanley
Miss Daisy White
Miss Hattie Lei Red
Mrs. E. L Shordon
Mrs. Meredith
Mrs. F. 1^>. Wilkes
Mrs. Anne V. Foster
Miss Lois Cleveland
Mrs. B. F. Coop
Mrs. Denton Cooley
Mrs. J. W. Woods
Mrs. W. A. Renn
Mrs. W. J. Matthews
Mrs. J. M. Pever
Mrs. Julia ^\'clls
Mrs. Wm. Shecter
Mrs. E. Ketchum
Mrs. Van Liew
Miss Eleanor Jones Mrs. Beatrice B. Prince Miss Marjorie Dorrance Miss Laura Rice ]\Iiss Lottie B. Rice Mrs. L Rothschild Mrs. Dan Smith Mrs. Sol Oberdorfer ]\Irs. H. A. Wittemore INIrs. Angie M. Phillips Mrs. W\ T. Magee ]\Iiss Rosalie Hutcheson :\Irs. Bettie Moody Lyons Mrs. Lina Martin Miss Florence Wilson Mrs. Marv M. Abbie Miss Ruth Clark Mrs. Sallie S. Horton Mrs. Anita F. Sewall Mrs. Ben Bering Mrs. Emma Leslie Dixon Mrs. Katherine Jackson ?\Irs. Corine Shaffer Mrs. Blanch Scholibo Miss Caroline Shipp Mrs. Jessie Morse Shii)p Miss Lottie Porter Dillingham Miss Claire Carter Miss Iva Carter Miss Ida Gauze Mrs. Margaret Dickson Miss Pauline Dillingliani Miss Clara Frank Mrs. Alice Rousseau Mrs. Edith Beach Mrs. Antoinette Styron Mrs. Jeanette Porter Spotts Miss Eloise Dillaye Mrs. Bessie Wright Briggs Mrs. Nina Angell Seward Mrs. Fannie McCullough Mrs. Mary Carr Anderson Mrs. Grace A. Vallas Mrs. Katherine IluwcilcT Mrs. Edith O'Neill
44
RED CROSS
Mrs. Inez Smith Tuffley Mrs.
Miss Rose McLaughlin Mrs.
Mrs. Gladys B. Ward Mrs.
Mrs. Katherine F. Button Miss
Mrs. Adel S. Wharton Miss
Miss Carrie Scott Miss
Miss Fannie McAshan Miss
Mrs. Mabel H. Gahagen Miss
Mrs. Ada R. Yeager Mrs.
Mrs. Alice A. Clark Mrs.
Mrs. Virginia DeLisle Miss
Mrs. Lee H. Drummond Mrs.
Mrs. Mary G. Lockwood Mrs.
Mrs. Emma R. BrarLch Mrs.
Mrs. Fannie Dermody Mrs. Miss Emma Esslinger
Betty Shannon Ellis
Lillian D. Warner
Alice Shutt
Cora Louise Bryan
Margaret Scott
Kathleen Haskell
Ann Gifford
Eric Thelma Buckner
Florence Parkhill
Margaret Pincenshan
Emilie Stude
James Radford
J. F. Burton
Rena C. Bryam
Lelia M. Fellows
HOUSEWIVES' LEAGUE RED CROSS AUXILIARY Mrs. Ida FrGmm, Chairman
Mrs. P. B. David Secretary-
Mrs. Ida Fromm Chairman
Mrs. L. G. Dreylin^ Instructor
This auxiliary was organized by Mrs. Sidney Huston and Mrs. E. A. Calvin. Mrs. Calvin had to leave Houston for Wash- ington, D. C, and Mrs. Huston's health failed, so Mrs. Ida Fromm was elected chairman. Mrs. Fromm took charge in her usual earnest manner and a wonderful amount of work was accomplished. The League had its own work-room and locker where supplies were kept ; they also had sewing ma- chines where hospital garments were made.
At first Mrs. S. M. Frank was instructor, later Mrs. L. G.
RED CROSS
Mrs. Decker
Mrs. White
Mrs. Frickman
Mrs. Grorschke
Mrs. Boysen
Dreyling became instructor and remained with the organiza- tion until all Red Cross work was abandoned.
Some of the best workers in the city belonged to this auxil- iary, five received the service medal, all the others did splendid work not only in surgical dressings and hospital garments, but with Liberty Bonds, Thrift Stamps, money raising for all drives, etc. Some of the ladies who deserve special mention are as follows : Mrs. P. B. David, secretary ; Mrs. Amele Deck- er, chairman of hospital garments ; Mrs. Roena Nickols, chair- man of cutting; Miss Juanita Frickman, general helper.
Several other organizations worked with the Housewives' League under Mrs. Fromm's leadership: The Second Ward Civic Club, with Mrs. Geo. Fromm as chairman ; the Rebekahs, Houston Lodge 192, with Mrs. J. H. Yale as chairman; the Knights and Ladies of Security, with Mrs. L. M. White as chairman. Other ladies deserving of special mention are : Mrs. R. B. White, Mrs. B. M. Bovsen, Mrs. Wm. \\'eaver, Mrs. Edith Hubbard, Mrs. J. J. Whitny, Mrs. \\'. J. Wade, Mrs. E. L. Jordan, Mrs. W. P. Wells, Mrs. M. J. Nelson, Mrs. D. M. Glugish. Mrs. Leo Furman, Miss Leona Westheimer, Mrs. L. D. Vanguard, AL's. Lillian Woodard, Mrs. P. A. Richarz, Mrs. T. J. Ewing. Mrs. Willie Bickel, Mrs. J. E. Lively. Mrs. Eliza Granger, Mrs. DeLesternier. Mrs. S. Thurmond and Mrs. E. D. Harlow.
Mrs. Fromm was also a block chairman, always comninnd- ing a large committee of workers during all the drives for Red Cross, United War Workers, Armenian Relief. Jewish Relief, etc. She was also on hand at all the home-coming entertain- ments. She provided several hundred home-made cakes for the men and never at any time failed to be on hand when as- sistance of any nature was needed. Mrs. Fromm is also a War Mother.
46 RED CROSS
THE CLARA BARTON RED CROSS AUXILIARY
Pensonnel : Mrs. A. L. Nelms, Chairman ; Mrs. George Scheultz, Treasurer; Mrs. Walter L. Conover, Secretary; Mrs. E. V. Gearing, Mrs. H. M. Curtin, Mrs. Walter R. Jones, Mrs. L. E. Krausse, Mrs. J. H. Branard, Mrs. Sterling Myer, Mrs. Jesse Goss, Mrs. G. W. Heinzelman, Miss Mackeye Surles, Mrs. Eddie Tanner.
The Clara Barton Auxiliary raised and spent more than two thousand dollars during the war. The funds were procured by the sale of dolls, dressed by Miss Tanner and Mrs. Nelms, at whose home the Auxiliary held its meetings.
Besides making the hundreds of sweaters, socks, Belgian relief garments, etc., the Auxiliary made and filled twenty-five hundred Christmas stockings which were sent to the sick and wounded soldiers at the base hospitals at Camp Logan and Ellington Field.
At Easter several Easter baskets with dozens of eggs were enjoyed by the Red Cross nurses and their patients.
THE RED CROSS AUXILIARY OF THE HARRIS COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
"And ye shall succor men ; 'Tis nobleness to serve."
Each woman, heart filled with tender compassion, wishing "to do her bit," to give freely of her time and strength during the dark days which had come upon the world, realizing that "in unity there is strength," the doctors' wives of the Harris County Medical Society early in 1917 organized for Red Cross work.
The first meetings were held at the home of the chairman, Mrs. Wallace Ralston, where, inspired by her interest and zeal and that of her successor, Mrs. S. M. Lister, much earnest work was done. With fall came the need for a central location and larger rooms, so the Red Cross Auxiliary of the Harris County Medical Society, increased in numbers, met either in the Medical Society hall or at Red Cross headquarters, with the following members enrolled : Mmes. Howard, Graves, Lister, Foster, Dickson, Greenwood, Norsworthy, Short, Gray, Spivak, Priester, Archer, Flickwir, Harwood, Green, Red, Thorning, Cunningham, J. C. Ellis, Reed, B. V. Ellis, Barrell, Greer, Kirkham, Scott. In addition to the regular members, others, among whom were the wives of doctors stationed at Camp Logan, gave much and appreciated assistance.
Under the able leadership of Mmes. Philo Howard and Ralph Graves, successive chairmen, regular sessions were held two
RED CROSS 47
days per week until the signing of the armistice, with as many extra ones as needed. When, in December, 1917, the call came for an extra large quota of surgical dressings, for two weeks the Auxiliary worked every day ; and with the valued help of friends, a great deal was accomplished for our own boys and those of our allies ; one item was 560 five-yard rolls.
All meetings were conducted in accordance with Red Cross regulations. The work was under the direction and inspection of instructors, Mmes. Flickwir, Harwood, Foster, Howard and Dickson serving at different times in this capacity.
In April. 1918. wishing to raise extra funds for the purchase of materials (these having always been paid for), and knowing that "all work and no play." etc., it was decided to give a bene- fit card partv. The wisdom of the decision was proven by the outcome. So glad was every one for a little diversion that the chance to play cards for a worthy cause was hailed with de- light, and it was truly a "1)1^1^11" in a doul)le sense.
The Render Hotel gave the use of the ball room, the mer- chants, druggists, jewelers, florists and others donated most of the prizes ; the furniture stores loaned the tables and chairs ; in fact, every one was so willingly helpful, the card party was a pleasure and success— and the sum of $210.00 was realized as clear profit. Of this amount. $150.00 was turned in to the Red Cross, the remaining $60.00 banked tor the Auxiliary's future use. \\'hen came the armistice, as there was no further need for surgical supplies, this $60.00 was divided among local organizations, given where it was thought to be most needed. The object of this Auxiliary— to do all to aid the great cause in every possible way— was upheld at all times; and ihv num- bers were ever ready to meet any and all calls from the Kcd Cross.
While l)c-lieving that—
"None shall work for honor "None shall work for lame."
yet, to feel thev had some part in alleviating the awful >u tier- ing'; to know that the hours spent in making surgical dressings resulted in saving lives on the battle-scarred fields and in the hospitals— is a great, grand, wonderful reward tor all. a cher- ished memory uhich will linger as long as 'I'iine shall last.
For —
"We need, each and all of us, to be needed, To feel we have something to give —
Then onlv we know that we live."
RED CROSS
FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH AUXILIARY TO RED
CROSS
The first meeting of this Auxiliary was held in the Kinder- garten rooms of the First Christian Church, Main and Bell, on the 24th day of July, 1917. There were twenty present on the date of organization and it was voted to give one day each week to the work. A little later two days a week were given to the work, and then as the need grew greater every day in the week was given except Saturday.
One hundred and twelve ladies were registered with this Auxiliary, all having attended more than one meeting. It was non-sectarian, the only requirement was a willingness on the part of the members to obey instructions which came from headquarters. There were young ladies from the teen age to the age of seventy-five all working harmoniously to do their part in the great world war.
The work was not confined to one branch, but was first started with the making of surgical dressings, then the making of hospital garments and refugee garments, followed by knit- ting. The knitting was all done in the home, no work of this kind being done in the Auxiliary rooms, unless the knitter came for some instruction.
The following ladies gave 800 or more hours to Red Cross work from the date of organization to the time of closing in April, 1919:
Hours
Fellows, Mrs. Lelia M., Instructor and Chairman 2,400
Byram, Mrs. Rena C, Instructor-Secretary.. 2,400
Redding, Mrs. Sophia 1,819
Schleeter, Mrs. Leta V 1,070
Allen, Mrs. E. O - 900
Edmundson, Mrs. J. E 900
Trotter, M rs. Flora 848
Karn, Mrs. Evelyn P 824
Hunter, Mrs. Evelyn 1,166
Moore, Mrs. Annie (to Social Service 30 hours) 1,018
Jones, Miss Laura 852
Fellows, Mrs. C. J 824
Campbell, Mrs. Mattie May 810
In addition to those mentioned as giving over 800 hours there were seven ladies who gave more than 500 hours to this Auxiliary work, and 101 who gave less than 500 hours.
From July, 1917, to April, 1919, this Auxiliary held one hun- dred and thirty all-day meetings. Made 39,430 surgical dress- ings ; 2,525 hospital garments ; 630 refugee garments, and 692 knitted articles.
RED CROSS 49
FINAL REPORT EASTWOOD RED CROSS AUXILIARY
The ladies of the Eastwood School District organized their Red Cross Auxiliary on May 24, 1918, with ^Irs. Walter Cock- rell as chairman, Mrs. E. E. Clark, vice-chairman ; Mrs. M. D. Carlisle, secretary, and Mrs. ^l. W. Lehmann. treasurer, hav- ing a membership of 43, a large number of whom, however, were unable to give full support. Active organized effort was suspended during July and August on account of the absence of Mrs. Cockrell, the chairman, but was resumed in September and pushed aggressively until November under the chairman- ship of Mrs. Clark.
This Auxiliary had to labor under many dift'iculties, being unable to secure possession of the school building, the only available place to work, until after school hours, but in the face of this, promptly got out all quotas of work assigned. The principal undertaking of this Auxiliary was the making of various kinds of surgical dressings, of which about 7,000 were made, although many knitted garments, convalescent robes, and Belgian clothes were made by individuals at home, besides $24.42 expended for Christmas boxes for soldiers overseas.
Meetings were held two afternoons each week, each member giving a free-will offering to help finance the work, all mate- rials used being paid for by funds raised by the Auxiliary by special benefits, individual offerings, a donation from the East- wood Embroidery Club, etc., the balance of funds on hand amounting to $67.21 being turned over to the Houston Head- quarters of the American Red Cross for relief work. Much credit is due the members for zealous and earnest effort, and to the officers for faithful performance of duty.
THE WOMEN'S CLUB OF THE SECOND WARD
The Women's Club of the Second Ward was organized Feb- ruary 19. 1908. The chief object of this club was the better- ment of the community around the Rusk School. Wherever a helping hand was needed we were ready to do our share.
Our club was the first in the city to establish an emergency closet, in which all necessities for a sick room were to be had, nightgowns, towels, sheets, pillow cases, etc. About six years ago we gave to the community a baby chest and promised never to let it be empty. Our promise still holds good, as we are still sewing for the needy babies.
When the war broke out we immediately organized a Red Cross Auxiliary and accomplished a good bit of work. The Rusk Settlement Auxiliary consisted of 25 adult members and met twice a week at Rusk School to make surgical dressings.
50 RED CROSS
At home some of our members knitted such as helmets, sweat- ers, mufflers and socks, while others sewed hospital garments.
Even at our regular weekly club meetings we were never idle, on those occasions we hemmed napkins and sheets and made kits for our soldier boys. Numerous times we were asked to help our city clinic with furnishing some special dressing.
Even the Junior Red Cross members helped, those too small to make surgical dressings knitted little squares or quilts to be sent to Belgium. All of the children helped in staging a big circus on Rusk School grounds with the profits of which we adopted a French war orphan.
Under the leadership of our chairman, Mrs. R. Balsam, we were ever ready to help. Many times we entertained soldiers. We took part in the big Red Cross parade, helped with every campaign that ever was carried on. Our members sold Liberty Bonds and War Savings Stamps, helped to solicit for the W. C. C. and Red Cross drives, and are still in the game, to serve wherever they are needed. No worthy cause was ever ignored by this club and never will be, as long as they have any old members left in the club. The present officers are : President, Mrs. Joe Hauck ; Secretary, Mrs. R. Balsam; Treasurer, Mrs. T. J. Farral.
FANNIN SCHOOL AUXILIARY
Mrs. S. M. Eister, chairman; Mrs. A. S. Foote, vice-chair- man; Mrs. W. J. Dermody and Mrs. Herbert Gates, instruc- tors. It was a surgical dressing auxiliary. In May a chil- dren's entertainment was given at the Auditorium, netting $250.00, which was turned in to Red Cross Headquarters to pay for materials. There was $103.81 left when the Auxiliary closed; this was left with headquarters.
Some of the regular workers were : Mrs. H. A. Van Eaton, Mrs. Ed. Heyne, Mrs. Kelley, Mrs. Robert Farmer, Mrs. W. M. Haley, Mrs. G. M. Beck, Mrs. Lang, Mrs. Flynn, Mrs. O. L. Tabor, Mrs. Heyser, Mrs. W. A. Burkitt, Mrs. T. Ricketts, Mrs. H. L. Mitchell, Mrs. G. S. Anderson.
CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN AUXILIARY
The Red Cross Auxiliary of the Central Presbyterian Church was organized April, 1918, with twenty-three charter mem- bers. Mrs. H. C. Talbot was appointed chairman of the Auxil- iary and served faithfully for one year. The Auxiliary met twice each week and faithfully performed all services in behalf of the nation and her men at arms. Two members v/ent from this Auxiliary as active war workers with the Red Cross, Mrs. Ora Chapman and Miss Florence Wright. In 1918 the Auxil-
RED CROSS
51
iary made 343 hospital garments, knitted 80 garments, made 275 refugee garments and mended 92 overcoats for the sol- diers.
In April, 1919, Airs. J. C. Benziger succeeded Mrs. Talbot as chairman. The Auxiliary continued to do good work and 161 refugee garments and four knitted garments were made.
Several of the members of this Auxiliary served faithfully in the drives and other Red Cross activities. Some of the first members moved to other cities but additional members jomed later The membership of the Auxiliary was: Mrs. A. C. Buchanan, Mrs. H. C. Talbot, Mrs. F. C. Kerns, Mrs. O. F. Bartine, Mrs. Jake Armstrong, Mrs. H. A. Newman, Mrs J. W Barnhill, Mrs. J. C. Benziger, Mrs. W. S. Shoemaker Mrs. D H Miller, Mrs. A. DeLisle, Mrs. A. P. Strode, Mrs. H. M. Heyde Mrs. C. F. Jewett, Mrs. E. R. Johnson, Mrs. J. H. Hut- ton Airs W. Clvde Howard, Airs. Anna Sproul, Airs. O. L. Wilkins, Mrs. J. T. Scott, Airs. C. R. Weeks Mrs. R. F. Butts, Airs \ H Buxton, Airs. J. W. Brelstord, Airs. H. E. Crate, Mrs Aubrey Fones, Airs. R. A. Fones, Airs. J. H. Lyon, Mrs. Fred Gann. Mrs. Casey, Mrs. T. P. McLane, Mrs. W. H Bar- rett Airs H. R. Alizner, Airs. L. K. Jewett, Airs. Fred Roach, Aliss Fanny Fowler, Aliss Alary Buchanan, AIiss Alfreda Jen- kins.
FIRST EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
Texas Ave. and Caroline St. Pastor, Rev. D. Baltzer
When the United States Govern- ment appealed to the churches for active support and co-operation in the prosecution of the great war in all of its many phases, an eager and willing response manifested itself the country over. Everywhere the many forces and organizations of the churches were mobilized and when the churches of our busy and pro- gressive city began to stir them- selves, the First Evangelical Luth- eran Church was also glad of the op- portunity to render whatever serv- ice it could for the patriotic and loyal support of the country's cause. Un- der the able leadership of Rev. Paul V. Dyck, who was pastor of the cliurch at that time, the various societies and organi-
Mrs. J. E. Sternenberg
52 RED CROSS
zations of the church were enhsted for this noble and impor- tant work.
The financial end of the war was given first consideration. The members and friends of the church were urged to con- tribute their financial support and aid and when an official committee was appointed with Mr. H. E. Detering acting as chairman for the Third Liberty Loan drive, the issue for which the special support of the churches was requested by the Gov- ernment, a total of $56,000.00 worth of bonds was sold. It is safe to say, since complete figures are not available covering all loans, that a grand total ranging between $190,000.00 and $200,000.00 was subscribed to for War Bonds within the bounds of the congregation. In the Sunday School over $500.00 worth of War Savings Stamps were disposed of among the pupils. The various campaigns for the support of the American Red Cross, the Y. M. C. A. and the other war activities overseas and in and about the camps also received most liberal finan- cial support.
Their Red Cross Auxiliary was organized January 14, 1918, under the efficient leadership of Mrs. J. E. Sternenberg. All material used was paid for and then turned over to the Amer-. ican Red Cross. In order to do this every member paid 25 cents per month as dues and not a few donated liberally. An- other source of income was provided for by the salvage sales in which used wearing apparel and donated articles were sold at public auction. The following report of the chairman rep- resents in figures the work accomplished by the Auxiliary :
Dues and donations received, $422.78; cost of supplies, $140.82; other expenses, $43.20; cash deposit with American Red Cross, $380.58; cash to credit of Auxiliary and donated to Red Cross, $224.71. Work finished: Surgical dressings, 12,235; repairing soldier coats, 55; sweaters, 9; scarfs, 1; helmets, 4; socks, 9; refugee dresses, 12.
There were thirty-nine stars in the service flag and one gold star. Lawrence Jensen was one of the first Houston boys to be called upon to make the supreme sacrifice on the battlefield in France. In Belleau Wood on the 4th of June he fell with many other brave youths as a member of U. S. Marines. May he rest in peace. He was a faithful Sunday School worker where he served as attendance secretary. All of our boys are glad to have had an opportunity to serve their country and feel that they have only been trained to fight life's daily battles as real, red-blooded men.
RED CROSS 53
UNITARIAN CHURCH AUXILIARY
Mrs. D. \\'. \\'hipple was chairman of the Unitarian Church Red Cross AuxiHary. Her auxiliary gave splendid service at headquarters.
FULLERTON SCHOOL AUXILIARY
]\Irs. W. L. Shepherd was chairman of the Fullerton Auxil- iary in which all of the ladies of this church took part, and a number of their people helped sell War Savings Stamps and Liberty Bonds.
McKEE STREET METHODIST CHURCH RED CROSS AUXILIARY
Was organized July 24, 1917, with Mrs. W. E. Mitchell chair- man. They soon had over 40 members and met twice weekly in the Young Women's Co-Operative Home. Miss Frankie Heyne and Mrs. J. A. Clark served as instructors in surgical dressings and Miss Zella Short as instructor in knitting.
Total number of dressings and garments made by this auxil- iary were as follows : Surgical dressings, 20,375 ; knitted gar- ments, 502; refugee garments, 500.
Members of Auxiliary were : Mrs. W. E. IMitchell, chair- man ; ]\Irs. Alice Allan Clark, secretary; Mesdames E. C. Dug- gan, Geo. Hope, R. Fox. E. N. Williams, A. M. Fredeen, L. E. Cobia, L. L. Reber, Fred Seibert, Louis Seibert, E. M. Young, Geo. Robertson, C. W. Powell, C. W. Conners, J. M. Hogan, M. Lamana, R. Fraychinsa, M. M. Massie, Charles Murphy, O. Havward. J. P.. Oliver. E. R. Gammon. L B. Manlv, H. E. Wil- son. B. H. Ellis. W. A. Chun. H. B. Couchman. H. H. Duna- hugh. J. M. Bourland, M. ]\I. P)uyers, A. E. Canedy. C. L. Good- ell. H. E. Wilson, K. C. Lowrie. J. A. Riley, D. Mullane. H. B. Bridges, James Cuny, E. V. Young, G. Pickett, E. L. Lalvet, B. Hendrix, J. L. Mitchell, C. Alonlein, J. O. Stewart, Hobgood, J. W. Mandrill, Botts, Batton ; Misses Annie Alfred, Sue Cole, Janie Mullane. i\Iarie Lamana, Dorace Seibert. Jean Walker, Clarice Seibert, Bertha Hogan, Helen Gainey.
THE THURSDAY AUXILIARY OF THE RED CROSS
Was organized October 4, 1917, under the auspices of the Current Literature Club at the home of Mrs. H. H. Cooper, who so graciously opened her home for the work. Mrs. H. K. Read was appointed chairman, Mrs. W. E. Everts secretary- treasurer. ]\Irs. J. F. Burton instructor. The work was con- tinued weekly until November, 1918. There were twelve char-
54 RED CROSS
ter members, the organization grew to a membership of sixty with an average of thirty-five weekly workers.
The work consisted of surgical dressings, 22,010; hospital garments, 248; refugee garments, 28; knitted garments, 414; 125 O. D. breeches mended. $1571.75 War Savings Stamps and Thrift Stamps were bought by the members.
LEVY BROS. RED CROSS AUXILIARY
Levy Bros. Red Cross Auxiliary was self-supporting. The work-room was maintained on the Annex balcony, a conve- nient location, where the girls and women could assemble at their noon hour, or any spare time that could be given from their departments.
Surgical dressings of all kinds, knitting, etc., was carried on. Aside from this work and the money turned in from the hun- dred per cent clubs for Red Cross, war loans. Thrift Stamps, etc., the employes gave a benefit entertainment and gave over five hundred dollars in cash.
Classes in home nursing and first aid were held, and from our number Mrs. Ora Chapman, after finishing her course of study at A. R. C. headquarters, went overseas and was in active service until the Army of Occupation was released.
The spirit of self-sacrifice was manifested daily among the girls and women. Often one girl would do the work of two in the morning preparations for the day's business so one could be released to work in the Auxiliary. After a hard day's work, many would remain to work two hours after six and noon hours were devoted, etc.
Mrs. Harriet E. Powell was chairman and Miss Mollie West- heimer, secretary. Each of these received the service badge of the A. R. C.
TEXAS WOMAN'S FAIR RED CROSS AUXILIARY
This auxiliary was among the first that was organized. Mrs. W. M. Baines was chairman. There were twenty-three mem- bers. Mrs. Sinclair was secretary and Mrs. Joe Palmer treas- urer. Mrs. E. A. Norton, Mrs. Ida Jones and Mrs. Ida Fromm were special assistants.
Those who helped with the knitting were Mrs. Fromm, Mrs. Welch, Mrs. Nickols, Mrs. Monroe, Mrs. F. J. Ebdon, Mrs. Hollyfield and Miss May Baines. One hundred and fifty-four garments were knitted by these ladies. All these ladies gave more than one thousand hours each at Red Cross headquarters. Some in the sewing room and other surgical dressing depart-
RED CROSS 55
ment. Four hundred and forty dollars was made by this auxiliary and turned in at headquarters. Those who helped to make this money were Mrs. M. J. Heaney, Mrs. E. G. Burke, Mrs. E. A. Norton, Mrs. Ida Fromm, Mrs. Ida Jones, Mrs. A. R. Myers and Mrs. F. J. Ebdon. These ladies also helped Mrs. Baines with every other war measure while she was chairman of this auxiliary.' such as Liberty Bonds. Thrift Stamps, pa- rades, etc. Mrs. Baines also gave fifty-eight programs or entertainments for the enlisted men during the year of 1918. Thirty-eight at the Lutheran Brotherhood Home for Enlisted Alen where she was general chairman of entertainment ; twen- ty-two at Ellington Field and Camp Logan, often going to these places through heavy rain and cold. Names of those who assisted with these programs, see Entertainment Department.
McASHAN METHODIST RED CROSS AUXILIARY
The ladies of this church hrst worked at Red Cross Head- quarters under the leadership of Mrs. Welch. Later, when Red Cross rooms were established at Lubbock School they all worked there as it was much more convenient. They made surgical dressings and hospital garments, also did knitting and made garments for Belgians. Some of the principal workers of this church were Mrs. Welch, Mrs. Fred Binde, Miss Martha Binde, Mrs. A. Blondeau. Mrs. \V. H. Baines, Mrs. Ida Reese, Mrs. F. J. Ebdon. Mrs. Bessie Grayson, Mrs. Annie Farrer, Mrs. C. Munroe, Mrs. F. P. Stevenson, Mrs. L. L. llammoc, Mrs. C. B. Williams. Mrs. Matt Drennan, Mrs. Birdie Gilles- pie and Mrs. E. N. Nicholson. The last five are war mothers. Seven of McAshan's young men enlisted in the service: Mr. T. C. Mason, [esse Hammoc, Charlie Hammoc. Charlie Gillespie, Malcolm Drennan, C. B. Williams, Jr., and McCoy Nicholson. Among those who had families and could not go but certainly did their best to "kec]) the home fires burning" . were : Mr. Fred Ebdon, Mr. Lamar Kiml^le. Mr. W. H. Baines, Mr. A. C. Nicholson and Mr. J. M. Goodman. The war pastor of this church was Rev. Oscar Hooper.
REPORT OF CATHOLIC WOMAN'S AUXILIARY OF THE AMERICAN RED CROSS
This auxiliary was opened at the beginning of Red Cross work in Houston in the school hall of the Church of the An- nunciation, where, with Mrs. Margaret Rutherford as chair- man, assisted by Miss Anna Hume as instructor, the work was carried on until September, when we were obliged to move, and through the courtesy of Miss Carrie Scanlan we had the free use of three rooms in the Scanlan Building.
56 RED CROSS
Mrs. Rutherford and Miss Hume were succeeded by Mrs. Catherine Button October 1, 1917. The instructors were Mrs. W. S. Hunt, Mrs. J. A. Button, Miss Rose McLaughlin, Mrs. Louis Tuffly and Miss Eileen McBreen. The chairmen of the work were as follows : Mrs. Thomas Kehoe, for the Baugh- ters of Isabella ; Mrs. Glass, Mrs. McGuckin, Mrs. M. L. Tuffly, Mrs. Button, of the sewing room; Mrs. Hunt, Mrs. Button, Mrs. L. Tuffly, Miss Rose McLaughlin, Miss McBreen, Mrs. Slack, Mrs. McEwen, and those in charge of the knitting room were Mrs. Kennedy and Mrs. Newning. In April, 1918, we moved to the Texas Company Building, where the Texas Com- pany gave us three rooms free of charge and we occupied these rooms up to the time we closed them for lack of work in these lines in April, 1919. We had plenty of good workers and each chairman had her day full from 9 a. m. till 5 p. m. We worked five days a week.
The Catholic Woman's Auxiliary took part in every drive for special work in sewing and for surgical dressings, and al- ways went over the quota assigned ; did splendid work in War Savings Stamps and Liberty Loan campaigns and all drives were as enthusiastically carried through as was the regular work of the auxiliary. This was a "paid" auxiliary, paying for all materials used. The members paid dues, gave entertain- ments, etc., thus making it possible to pay for materials. The chairmen were selected from the Catholic churches, Baughters of Isabella, Newman Circle, Woman's Club. It speaks most eloquently of the work accomplished that nearly every worker in the Catholic Woman's Auxiliary is entitled to the service pin (with two white stripes in the setting) of the American Red Cross, meaning for each one over 2000 hours of work in this good cause.
MRS. DENTON COOLEY
The Red Cross record would be woefully incomplete with- out a few words concerning the activities of Mrs. Benton Cooley. She was on the board of directors all during the war period and is still one of its most active workers. Buring the strenuous period of 1918 she worked faithfully at headquar- ters but always found time to help with the membership drives. She was chairman of women in the fall drive of 1918 and also chairman of women in the drive of 1919. In the spring of 1919 she was elected chairman of the Nurses' Course and over 500 women were registered students.
Mrs. Cooley is a Y. W. C. A. worker and is a member of the school board.
RED CROSS
57
MISS OLIVE MARSHALL
Red Cross worker who served two years in France and Germany. Miss Marshall served longest at Vierzone in the heart of France, where every soldier going to the front or coming from the front passed. French, English and American troops were alike served by the canteen, the French so polite, with a little smile and a salute for each cup of coffee, and the Americans just boys who were glad to get into the tent and lie down upon the benches or ta- bles to sleep.
Miss Marshall says that not enough can be said of the Amer- ican soldier. She thinks they are the cleanest, most upright men on earth. She will not talk of herself. The doughboy and his suffering occupy her every thought. She tells how brave they were, how they smile and joke even when suffering most. At Vierzone canteen she worked from 8 to 16 hours daily ; they worked in shifts of two day and night. 80.000 meals were served weekly at this canteen and not only were meals served but wounds bound up and hearts comforted.
"It is impossible to feel that I had been of particular serv- ice," said Miss Marshall, "because there were such large sac- rifices being made by the men all the time. They were en- during hunger, mud, cold and rain and frequently fever and weakness from wounds as they waited, jollying each other and us, for what benefit they could get from a cup of coffee or chocolate, a sandwich and some cigarettes. There were such long, long, never ending lines of them that it seemed to us that what we could do for each of them was too pitifully small to be considered."
58 RED CROSS
MISS SULLIVAN
During the entire war period Miss Sullivan was one of the most patri- otic young women that the writer had the pleasure of knowing, and just as soon as it was possible for her to qualify for service, she be- came identified with the local chap- ter of the Red Cross and through that chapter received assignment to report to that order in Paris for as- signment to the front. Just before leaving New York City in November last the armistice was signed, which, however, did not interfere with her Paris engagement. After remaining in service with that organization in France, Miss Sullivan was sent to Scotland and at the present time she is in Constantinople, engaged in the American Relief Service in the Far East.
MRS. MAX TAUB
Mrs. Taub was one of the most earnest directors of the Houston Chapter of the Red Cross. From the time of organi- zation until there was no further need of her services, she was chairman of the sewing department and personally supervised thousands of hospital garments and all kinds of clothing for overseas relief.
The principal sub-chairmen in the sewing room were : Mrs. J. W. Brannon, Mrs. Frank Cross, Mrs. J. E. Morgan, Mrs. F. A. Toombs, Mrs. F. J. Spencer, Mrs. Russell Brown, Mrs. Geo. Bruce, Mrs. Sterling Myer, Mrs. J. F. Garrison, Mrs. Wm. Daugherty, Mrs. Ike Keller, Mrs. John Mobley, Mrs. J. A. Sisler, Mrs. Green, Miss Sarah Liles.
Mrs. Taub was also chairman of an organized league for the protection of working women and girls and she has for a number of years given faithful, efficient service as a director of the Faith Home.
MRS. CHAS. SCHOLIBO
Mrs. Scholibo has headed so many really worth-while move- ments that one hardly knows where to begin. She has for years been one of Houston's hardest worked women in public affairs. Mrs. Scholibo's work was principally with schools and
RED CROSS
59
school children. She is a State officer of the Congress of Mothers and spends much of her time visiting the rural dis- tricts, speaking at meetings of the Parent-Teachers Associa- tion. She was for five years on the advisory board of the city schools and for two years on the board of trustees, and has been appointed for the ensuing term of two more years.
Mrs. Scholibo worked constantly with the children during the war period, was special representative of the Junior De- partment of the American Red Cross for the State. Her work at the present time consists principally of visiting the schools and laying before the presidents and principals the peace pro- gram. Mrs. Scholibo took all four of the Red Cross courses of instruction. She helped with all of the drives for member- ship.
Under her leadership $1000 was sent to the National Chil- dren's Year Fund for children abroad, and $500 was sent to relieve the October storm suft'erers at Corpus Christi.
HON. CLARENCE R. WHARTON Chairman of Social Service Commission, Red Cross
Mr. Wharton was chairman of the Social Service Commis- sion, which had charge of all of the social activities between the soldiers at Camp Logan and the people of the city of Hous- ton. These commissions were known as the Fosdick Commis- sions, and had charge of all such activities as clubs, churcli work, music, lodge affiliations, etc.
He had charge of the cam- paign to raise the first Y. M. C. A. war fund of $100,000 in the autumn of 1917. The fund was oversubscribed.
He also had charge of the campaign to raise the second
Red Cross war fund in 1918. They raised $475,000, which was nearly 100 per cent over subscription.
He made many addresses in dift'erent parts of the State in connection with different phases of war work.
60
RED CROSS
JESSE H. JONES
Mr. Jesse H. Jones was director of military relief for the Red Cross. Mr. Jones left his business and gave his entire time for over a year to this work, making his headquarters in New York City. Besides giving so freely of his services he spent many thousands of dollars in all kinds of relief work.
RED CROSS MEMBERSHIP
Mr. Abe M. Levy was chairman of Red Cross membership. He was ably assisted by a host of loyal workers. The Honor Flag was captured for Houston by registering the largest per- centage of the city's population as members of the Red Cross. Hundreds of patriotic men, women and Boy Scouts worked whole-heartedly. During each drive a Red Cross parade was staged, thousands of people taking part. Many large flags were carried by ladies horizontally as receptacles for contri- butions. Small coin by the handful and many bills, some of large denominations, flew through the air to find lodgment in "Old Glory." When these flags were turned in at headquar- ters some were found to contain several hundreds of dollars. No one was thought much of in those days who did not wear a Red Cross membership button.
t
HOUSTON'S LIBRARIAN 61
MISS JULIA IDESON
The librarian in any community is an important person. In a city the size of Houston this is particularly true. She is the connecting link between the public and a vast realm of knowl- edge. Houston is fortunate in having a librarian splendidly equipped for this position in the person of ]\Iiss Julia Ideson. She seems to live and move and have her being in library work, and is tremendously interested in anything pertaining to it.
At the beginning of the war the Houston library had the largest number of books of any library in the State, there being 125,000 in circulation. The reading rooms were always well attended and the library is fortunate in having a hie of Houston's papers from 1848 to the present time. In the refer- ence room they constantly receive and answer questions of all kinds from a description of the Lusitania to the care of feed- ing babies. At a meeting March 4, 1918, a committee of the following ladies were appointed to assist Miss Ideson in col- lecting and distributing books at Camp Logan and Ellington Field: Misses Amelia Studv, \'irginia Waldo, jMaidie Baker, Nellie Kittrell, I\Irs. C. C. Crawford, Mrs. Geo. Hill, Mrs. J. C. Rawlston, Mrs. W'm. Christian, Mrs. Frank Dwyer, Mrs. W. M. Baines, Mrs. J. C. Robertson, Mrs. May Gray, Mrs. F. W. Volch, Mrs. John Snooks, Misses Julia Runge, Annie Lee Ar- mald, Ruby Patton and Mrs. Camella Waggaman. Each and every one on this committee rendered faithful service. Febru- ary 10, 1919. Miss Ideson obtained a leave of absence and sailed for France to take charge of one of the libraries established there for the comfort, entertainment and instruction of the American soldiers in France. During Miss Ideson's absence the Houston Library has been under the able management of Miss Martha Schnitzer.
62
SALVATION ARMY
SALVATION ARMY
ENSIGN BURDICK AND FAMILY Salvation Army Oversea Workers
Ensign and Mrs. F. O. Btirdick of the Salvation Army are the godparents of the First Division. They went to the front when the First did. From December, 1917, until the armistice was signed "Ma" Burdick, 60 years old, baked pies and mended khaki clothing in every sector of the western front. In No- vember, when the fighting ceased, the couple was transferred to Brest, where they worked until they sailed for home, April 22. Mrs. Burdick was called "Ma" by all the boys and has a pie record of all the Salvation Army cooks. She baked 324 pies in twelve hours one day under fire. She did it on an army field range.
The first pie that the Salvation Army mother cut up for the boys in France was baked at Toul, in an oven that "Pa" Bur- dick had constructed for the occasion. It was a tin cookie box, and it held just two pies. One was pumpkin and the other apple.
The headquarters at the front at which the Burdicks enter- tained was an abandoned cellar, protected by a camouflaged tarpaulin. It had two chief articles of furniture. One was the French stove and the other "Ma" Burdick's sewing ma- chine, on which she mended the doughboys' clothes and made them new ones out of salvaged material.
Mother Burdick has had a wonderful experience and has gone through all the suffering and exposure attached to army life. She helped to close the eyes of the dead and adminis- tered in a hundred ways to the suffering, but she doesn't care to talk of those things ; she thinks it is best forgotten. As most Salvation Army workers she wants to look only on the
SAL\'ATION ARMY 63
bright side. She remembers many little stories about the boys she served over there. One day a rough, raw-boned, gaunt- looking private from Texas came to her dugout. "Hello, mother," he said, "how are the doughnuts?" "You don't want doughnuts," said Ma. "A great big man like you, what you want is a good meal."
Mr. and Mrs. Burdick were accompanied by their son Elmer D. Burdick and their daughter. Miss Cecil Burdick. Miss Jessie Winters and Miss Burdick left Houston together and were together the entire period while they were away. Their first hut was at Rose En Haye, Avhere they had a big room, but no place for a kitchen. So they put their cooking utensils outside against the wall and put up a tarpaulin with as long sticks as they could find. They camouflaged it with branches of trees and sticks. Identified with the First Division, they moved with it from the region of Soissons, where thev were first stationed, in to the St. Mihiel sector. The very night they arrived, at one minute past 1. the drive was begun and the next day they watched the battle on Mount Sec, through glasses, identifying the Americans pounding up the hill. A few days later, they climbed Mount Sec without leave to see the battle scarred region.
A call came for women to aid in the field hospital, and the two Houston girls, with 12 others, went to the front where there were no women nurses and aided in every way they could in cooking and in caring for the wounded. They were under fire at this time and the naval guns were booming be- hind them with shots going far overhead, but terrifying for all that. One night before they could get their shoes on, 84 bombs were dropped near them.
Verdun, Brest, Montabeau, Germany and many a small town between saw the Salvation lassies, only two at a time, with often no women within miles and no Salvation Army man, but never alone, for there was always a group of soldiers to be fed or sewed up or to write letters for or to listen to. Every minute full. They saw service in huts, in hospitals, in first aid stations, in fact it was stated that as many things as one could do, one was called upon to do and then a few more things be- sides. "There was something to be done all the time," they said, "and we did it. We were always happy, because we were always busy, doing anything— all things— that the boys needed. Sometimes we were scared to de^ith. naturally, because we were initiated from the start by a 280-pouncri)omb hitting half a mile away from us. That sounds a long way away. Init it isn't wMien it hits."
Despite discomforts like finding mice in their mattresses so
64 SALVATION ARMY
thick that they were overrun in the night, despite sleeping where the mud was so deep that they had to wade to get to bed; in spite of the fact that there the dead were often seen and that ruined villages became familiar sights, in spite of the guns and the bombs, the blood and terror of war, Miss Winters and Miss Burdick have come back feeling that the experience was worth while. "If you couldn't learn to be broader minded and more democratic, to allow more and give more, under such circumstances, then you have nothing in you," they said. The Salvation Army workers who won worldwide fame during the period of the world war are with us on our streets every day. When the lassies come around with their tambou- rine and modest appeal for help don't forget that they were ministering angels to the boys over there.
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE 65
National League of Women's Service
Mrs. W. B. Sharp, State Chairman ; Mrs. H. F. Ring, Gen- eral Chairman for Houston.
Pending the establishment of a Bureau under the Federal Government, to deal with woman's work and woman's welfare, the National League for \\'oman's Service established in Washington a Bureau of Registration and Information, en- dorsed by the Federal Department of Labor, and working in direct co-operation with this department.
The function of the Bureau is to mobilize wage-earning women through the State and local committees of the League and co-operating organizations for industrial service in con- nection with government war supplies contracts. The Bureau was informed by the Federal Department of Labor of every contract awarded by the Navy and War Departments. If, for tract awarded by the Navy and War Departments. If. for example, there was found to be a shortage of workers in the locality in which a government contract had been awarded, the Bureau, by telegraphing the League's chairmen in other localities, arranged to supply the deficiency. The Bureau was also a clearing house of information regarding the work of women's organizations throughout the country.
Women can serve their country best by becoming more ef- ficient and more earnest in the everyday work they are doing now. If a woman is a good cook, for example, the League would discourage her studying aviation; if she is a good stenograpl»€r, it would not recommend that she study nursing. On the contrary, the League is trying to encourage women to do those mings for which they arc fitted by training or natural ability and not those things which might better be done by other women, or left to men.
As soon as America entered the war Mrs. W. B. Sharp was appointed State chairman, and Mrs. H. F. Ring was appointed general chairman for Houston. She immediately organized and appointed chairmen for the various departments. Mrs. J. W. Butler was placed in charge of the overseas work (clothing for Belgium, etc.) ; Mrs. R. U. Culberson had charge of the knitting; Mrs. Joe S. Palmer, home gardens and poultry; Mrs. A. G. Alillison, stenography classes, and Mrs. C. C. Crawford, Motor Corps. Mrs. Ely Ensign was Mrs. Ring's general assistant.
These are some of the women who assisted with the over- seas work : Mrs. J. F. P.utler, Mrs. A. F. Purdy, Mrs. Maxwell Barnes, Mrs. Robert L. Wilson, Mrs. Jennie Rue, Mrs. Jessie
66 NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE
Andrews, Mrs. Brice Frazier, Mrs. W. E. Japhet, Miss Adeline Gohlman, Mrs. Jessie Myers, Mrs. Sidney Daniels, Mrs. H. A. Neuman, Mrs. Sidney Houston, Mrs. W. E. Townsend, Mrs. W. E. Japhet, Mrs. E. B. Blanton, Mrs. Bragg, Mrs. C. A. Pearson, Mrs. Leon Gordon, Mrs. H. T. Rue, Mrs. H. E. Bragg, Mrs. Codding, Mrs. J. D. Anderson, Mrs. J. W. Thomas, Mrs. H. A. Neuman.
Wonderful work was accomplished in the knitting depart- ment which was in charge of Mrs. Robert Culberson. The con- servation of food under the National League was taken care of by the Housewives League, Mrs. E. A. Calvin, chairman. There was a downtown kitchen where demonstrations in food preservation were given as well as instruction in substitution and conservation. This was a very important function of the National League and it was very fortunate in having the Housewives League to push the work.
In other departments, the league also made great progress. Its agricultural department was well organized with Mrs. J. S. Palmer as chairman. Mrs. Palmer encouraged the making of home gardens in Houston and its vicinity. She had experts to give instructions in the various departments of agriculture, and being a practical gardener herself, was able to advise and instruct those who needed directions. Registrations were taken at the agricultural room of the Chamber of Commerce, at stated times.
Mrs. Palmer also had charge of the Poultry Department. Poultry raising as a war measure was considered by the league of great importance and Mrs. Palmer threw her efforts into the work in a whole-souled way and she never at any time failed to accomplish wonderful results. Her work with both gardens and poultry was talked of all over the country. She received hundreds of letters from farmers in all parts of the country asking advice.
In January, 1918, a course in Motor Driving was planned by young women who were strong enough to undertake it. The nation at that time was making a strong appeal to the women and girls of the country to take up this branch of the service. Through the co-operation of Houston's public schools the "National League of Women's Service" and the "Young Women's Christian Association," two classes were formed of 50 pupils each and were taught at Central High School through lectures and actual demonstrations by E. M. Wyatt, a director of manual training. Out of these classes 12 graduated.
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE 67
Women Study to Aid Government if Needed
In order to prepare for such a time as may find their hus- bands needed for service a number of Houston women ex- pressed a desire to study stenography, not only for the purpose of self-support, but to likewise aid the government, if need arose.
To meet this demand a department was organized in the Na- tional League for Women's Service under the direction of Mrs. A. G. Mallison. which began work as soon as an instruc- tor was secured.
Stenography Classes Organized
Mrs. A. G. Mallison. Chairman, and ]\Irs. A. B. Prescott, Vice-Chairman.
"Quick Training for Efficient Service" was their slogan. The school was open to all women and girls who wished in this way to do their part in winning the war.
Seventy students were enrolled at the first meeting of the classes. They were divided into three classes and were taught at Central High School and were taught from 5 to 6 months. To Mrs. IMallison, chairman of arrangement committee, be- longs much credit for the success of the venture, with Mrs. Beatrice Arrington as teacher.
Motor Corps Service
Another branch of service taken up was the Motor School. A good lecturer was provided and more than fifty students were enrolled to attend the classes which met at Central High School. The course covered the following:
* * * Method of driving, steering gear, brakes, axle, clutch, differential, transmission, gasoline, engine, engine parts, valve timing, firing order, carburetion. adjustments, cooling, lubri- cation, tire repairing, ignition and coil system, magnetos and traffic rules.
The women and girls who thoroughly mastered this course would have been able to render most necessary and patriotic service to their country.
68 NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE
MRS. H. F. RING
It can be truthfully said that Mrs. H. F. Ring did more war work than any other woman in Houston, as general chairman of these three big organizations :
President of City Federa- tion of Woman's Clubs ; City Chairman of National League of Women's Service, and Chairman City Founda- tion.
She was general chairman of Woman's Division Liberty Loan Committee. She served in this capacity through the second and third campaigns. Mrs. Ring has, for years, been one of Houston's most active club women. She joined the Ladies' Reading Club in 1888.
As president of the Reading Club, Mrs. Ring was instru- mental in forming the City Federation, composed originally of six clubs. With these clubs working together the Houston Lyceum and Carnegie Library Association was formed. In 1900 an appropriation of $4000 per annum was secured from the city for its support. The club women then busied them- selves in raising the funds for a suitable building site. Mr. Carnegie's donation of $50,000 being conditioned on the people of Houston doing this. The present beautiful library home is a testimonial of the success of their earnest effort.
Mrs. Ring has been a trustee of the Carnegie Library since its beginning. For a number of years she served as chairman of the State library committee of Women's Club, and suc- ceeded in getting a state library commission appointed to take charge of the State work, believing it to be as much the func- tion of the State to provide books for the children to read as to teach them how to read. Mrs. Ring has also served on the library board of the General Federation of Woman's Clubs.
She is a Daughter of the Confederacy, a Daughter of the American Revolution, and a member of the Art League.
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE 69
What She Says About Suffrage.
"After many years of work with the chib women of the State in trying to get laws passed for the protection and con- servation of women and children, and birds and trees, and historical landmarks ; after 30 years of working for clean towns and homes and pure foods and decent school buildings, and public parks and good roads, and kindergartens and com- pulsory education, I have at last realized that we could do all this work much better and quicker and with less loss of time and dignity and self respect by casting our vote as full fledged citizens. It is not pleasant to have to wheedle and cajole or flatter men to give us these sensible and practical things. We send our prettiest and most influential women to plead with them. We get them in groups and feed them ; sometimes we worry them into doing the right and reasonable thing. It takes too much of our time and energy, and it makes us think less of ourselves and them. The interests of men and women are identical. It is the failure to recognize this fact that has caused any sex antagonism on either side."
Mrs. Ring's maiden name was Elizabeth L. Fitzsimnu)ns. She was born and raised in Houston, and while a book could be, and should he, written about her. we can only add here that everyone knows her and everyone loves her.
MRS. W. B. SHARP.
Mrs. Sharp's work was so national in scope that it is hard to give account of it. She was on the War Work Committee of the National Federation of Clubs, as well as chairman of the State Federation War Work Committee. She succeeded in making tiie National Federation ado])t the Can- teen work both at home and abroad as their special war work. She was at the fore in every kind of war work in Houston, except active Red Cross work, but was a big contributor in funds to that. She gave most liberally to all lines of work, and her time and best personal efforts to special phases of it, such as conservation and registration of women workers. Had the war lasted this work would have proven its importance fully, as it was the effects were fully justified, showing what women could do in an emergency. The Federated Clubs in Houston took part in every activity and made many sacrifices. Women like Mrs. Sharp stirred their ])atriotism and gave in- spiration and energy. The women who know Mrs. Sharp best love her dearly, and those she came in contact with during the war period learned to respect her quiet, dignified manner, and appreciate what she meant to them.
70 NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE
MRS. ELY ENSIGN
Vice-President Federation of Women's Clubs and Vice-Chair- man of National League of Woman's Service.
Mrs. Ensign gave splendid serv- ice in both the above organizations with Mrs. H. F. Ring. Mrs. Ring said: "Not too much can be writ- ten in praise of Mrs. Ensign's work." These few words from Mrs. Ring are worth more than anything I could say. It means she helped with everything, giving constant service both in the office and on the streets when required. She succeeded Mrs. Ring as chairman of the National League, but in a short time the ar- mistice was signed. Mrs. Ensign was president of "Child's Welfare League" for two years. She was also chairman of "Children's Year,"
an important work under the W^omen's Committee, "Council of National Defense." She is a director of "Housewives' League" and has lately been elected president of the Parent- Teachers' Association.
MRS. A. C. FORD
When Mrs. Sharp and Mrs. Ring, as representatives of the National League of W^oman's Service, decided to join forces with the War Camp Community Service and take charge of the Recreational Canteen, Mrs. A. C. Ford was chosen as gen- eral manager. "We were very fortunate," said Mrs. Ring, "in having such a competent person as Mrs. Ford to head this movement." Mrs. Ford truly justified Mrs. Ring's confidence. For 12 months she personally supervised the work in every department, refreshment, recreation and finance, winning the highest praise from the soldiers, the organizations and the general public. More than one hundred women served on Mrs. Ford's committee, practically every organization belonging to the City Federation of Women's Clubs assisting. At the end of the year Mrs. Ford reported over one thousand dollars still in the treasury ; this, of course, was due to her careful, effi- cient management.
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF WOMEN'S SERVICE 71
Protective League for Girls
In June, 1918, a committee on protective work for girls was organized in Houston by ]\Irs. Jane Rippin, Southwestern dis- trict representative of the national committee of this work, and has as its province the care of those girls who were not yet delinquent, but who were in danger of becoming so. They were, therefore, in an intermediate class which can not be properly dealt with either by the Young \\'omen's Christian Association or by the schools for delinquent girls.
This committee, which was composed of Mrs. ]\Iax Taub, chairman ; Mrs. J. W. Neal. Mrs. E. C. IMurray, ]\Irs. Thayer, Mrs. Thornwell Fay, Miss Florence Sterling and Miss Martha Gano, with seven sub-committees, is undertaking the provi- sion of constructive work for girls, of proper employment for them and of a suitable detention home. These objects it hopes to gain not by creating new organizations, but by working through the existing agencies of the city and county, and most especially is it relying on the assistance and co-operation of the women's agencies of the community.
On July 8, 1918, a delegation of women from various organ- izations decided that a woman deputy sheriff should be ap- pointed. As no objection was raised to this measure it was eventually done. The measure was recommended by Ethel A. Claxton, superintendent of Harris County School for Girls ; Mrs. H. F. Ring, president City Federation of Women's Clubs ; Mrs. W. F. Wilson, president of City Missions of M. E. Church ; Mrs. Ely Ensign, i)resident Child's Welfare Association, and Mrs. G. A. Young, executive secretary Harris County Equal Suffrage Association. j\liss Goldsmith was endorsed for the position.
72 LUTHERAN BROTHERHOOD OF AMERICA
THE LUTHERAN BROTHERHOOD OF AMERICA
->>-'•
Rev. H. F. Ander
Rev. Walter Tillberg Rev. N. M. Ylvisaker
Mr. E. M. Ericson
Is a men's auxiliary of the Lutheran Church of America. Shortly after the declaration of war this society realized its obligation to its members in the service. Knowing that other organizations were looking after the social and moral welfare of the soldier in general it took it upon itself to minister spir- itually to its members and men of its church, and as many oth- ers as might be reached. To do this it sent an army of camp pastors into the fields and camps and here begins the history of the work of the L. B. A. in Houston in connection with the surrounding camps.
In October, 1917, Rev. N. M. Ylvisaker, pastor of the Luth- eran Church of Chicago, was sent as camp pastor to Camp Logan. A few months later Rev. Walter Tillberg was sent here
LUTHERAN BROTHERHOOD OF AMERICA TZ
A Room in the Enlisted Men's Home
to assist him in his work. As the rehgious census of the camp showed about 6000 Lutheran boys, these men worked in con- junction with the Y. ^L C. A. and Red Cross, speaking when- ever called upon and also being granted the courtesy of con- ducting Lutheran services in the "Y" huts.
They visited the boys in their tents and in the hospitals, and directed them to their respective churches in the city. Rev. H. F. Ander, local Lutheran minister, was later called into the service as assistant to replace Rev. Tillberg, who was sent to Camp Travis. After getting into the work the L. B. A. soon realized the necessity of providing social recreation in the cities as downtown "rendezvous" for the men. This was not done in opposition to the War Camp Community Service, but in perfect harmony. In many places the L. B. A. Clubs are numbered among the service stations of the W. C. C. S.
The camp pastors, after thoroughly discussing their propo- sition with the Y. iVI. C. A.. Red Cross, W. C. C. S. and army officials at the camp, rented two floors in the building for- merly occupied by the old Press Club at 910^^ Capitol Avenue and had them remodeled, spending about $3000.
Mr. Edw. M. Ericson. managing director of the Artists' Guild of Chicago, was called as business secretary. Although
74 LUTHERAN BROTHERHOOD OF AMERICA
this meant a great sacrifice on his part, he was wilHng to do his "bit" and accepted. He did still more, he at once set to work and solicited contributions from various members of the Guild and when Mr. Ericson arrived he brought with him an art collection which was not only a credit to the club rooms but also to the city of Houston. Mr. Ericson arrived in Octo- ber, 1918, and immediately with the co-operation of the other secretaries set to work to make the E. B. A. Enlisted Men's Home a home in the real sense of the word. But what is home without mother, so Mr. Ericson soon had his wife come and she certainly filled the place of "mother" at the home as near as anybody outside of mother can.
The club consists of a large auditorium, reading room, ladies' rest room, writing room, game room and music room. Books and magazines were supplied by the American Library Asso- ciation. Stationery is furnished by the L. B. A. Two pool tables, checkers, dominoes, etc., make up the furnishing of the game room. Music, consisting of Edison talking machine, piano, violin, cornet and mandolin. The furniture is hickory, consisting of rockers and comfortable lounges and chairs. A feature in connection of the club is the dormitory with sleep- ing accommodations for 250 men, nine shower baths, wash room and lockers. Since the opening of the Home at least 10,000 men have found sleeping quarters. A nominal sum of 25 cents per bed is charged, but if the soldier is without funds he is always put to bed and well taken care of. The manage- ment estimates that no less than 10,000 soldiers visit the Home monthly. The beds for the dormitory were furnished by the army, the blankets and linens were furnished by the Red Cross.
Much of the success of the Home is due to Mr. Ericson, suc- ceeding in getting local organizations and talent interested in furnishing entertainment for the men. The local chapter of the D. A. R. not only furnished entertainments but completely equipped one section of the dormitory with ten beds, mat- tresses, pillows, linens, blankets, shades, mirrors and table.
Mrs. W. M. Baines, assisted by all the best talent of the city, furnished a regular classical and edifying program every Sat- urday evening, after which refreshments were served by com- mittees of women and girls, Mrs. Ida Fromm always presid- ing at the coffee urn and winning for herself the reputation among the boys of making the best coffee in Houston. Home- made cakes and pies were always served free by these ladies.
The staff of the local L. B. A. Enlisted Men's Home con- sisted of three secretaries, two religious and one business. The religious secretaries continued the work at the camps and assisted the business secretary at the Home.
WAR TIME PASTORS OF HOUSTON CHURCHES 75
During the epidemic the L. B. A. not only had a man on the job at the hospital day and night but also opened its home to the relatives of the sick men and took care of them for several weeks. One more point of information; we are often asked, "Who furnishes the money for your support?" Thinking peo- ple realize that the operation of an institution like the L. B. A. involves a considerable expense. In January. 1918, the Luth- eran Brotherhood launched a campaign for $750,000.00 among the Lutheran churches of America, the response was so liberal that the amount was doubled. A commission was then formed known as the National Lutheran Commission for Soldiers and Sailors Welfare to handle this money and through this com- mission the Home has been financed.
The motto of the L. B. A. is "Loyalty to Home. Church and Country" and with this spirit the Enlisted Men's Home has been run and will continue as long as it finds work in Houston to do.
WAR TIME PASTORS OF CHURCHES OF HOUSTON
PRESBYTERIAN :
First — Rev. Wm. States Jacobs.
First, Heights — Rev. David H. Templeton.
Central — Rev. Clyde Howard.
Westminster — Rev. W. F. Perry.
Second — Rev. F. E. Fincher.
Central Park —
Oak Lawn— Rev. W. L. Shepherd.
Hardy Street— Rev. J. C. Hinds.
Woodland Heights— Rev. J. L. Dickens.
Third— Rev. T. B. Anderson.
Bohemian — Rev. J. W. Dobias.
Woodcrest — Rev. J. M. Evans.
BAPTIST :
First — Rev. J. B. Leavell. Temple— Rev. E. P. West. First, Heights — Rev. F. A. Goodsoe. Tuam— Rev. M. M. Wolfe. Tabernacle — Rev. W. R. lirown. Trinity — Rev. Theo. Heisig. West End— Rev. D. L. Griffith. Calvary — Rev. W. B. Cunningham. Houston Avenue — Rev. A. E. Vogt. Woodland— Rev. W. E. Foster. Sunset Heights — Rev. A. P. Robb.
7(>, WAR TIME PASTORS OF HOUSTON CHURCHES
Magnolia Park — Rev. R. J. Brown.
First, Ryan Addition — Rev. R. L. Bennett.
Emanuel —
Association Mission — Rev. C. D. Owens.
Pulpit Supply— Rev. W. L. Robertson.
Harbor Addition — Rev. F. A. Goodsoe.
METHODIST:
First — Rev. H. D. Knickerbocker.
St. Paul— Rev. W. R. Hendrix.
Grace, Heights — Rev. F. D. Dawson.
West End— Rev. R. E. Ledbetter. , McAshan — Rev. O. W. Hooper.
Washington Avenue — Rev. C. E. Clark.
Trinity— Rev. I. B. Manley.
McKee Street— Rev. W. F. Smith.
Behnke Memorial — Rev. W. D. Weimas.
Bering Memorial — Rev. C. A. Eehmberg.
St. John's Memorial — Rev. Jno. E. Green.
Woodland Heights — Rev. I. F. Key.
Central Park — Rev. Terry Wilson.
Harrisburg — Rev. Weems Wooten.
Ebenezer — Rev. H. W. Bahlman.
Swedish —
Presiding Elder — Rev. R. W. Adams.
METHODIST EPISCOPAL:
First, Collins Memorial — Rev. Willis H. Germany.
CHRISTIAN :
First (Central) — Rev. H. K. Pendleton. South End— Rev. A. E. Ewell. Second— Rev. W. A. Steele. Houston Heights — Rev. W. L. Morrow.
CONGREGATIONAL : Rev. H. B. Harrison.
LUTHERAN :
Zion's— Rev. H. F. Ander.
St. Paul's Evangelical — Rev. John Harder. ASSEMBLY OF GOD :
Rev. E. N. Richey.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Rev. Willis Weaver, 1020 Walker Avenue. Rev. C. I. Brown, care Y. M. C. A. W. C. Paige, Y. M. C. A.
Y. :\I. C. A. AND Y. W. C. A. 7r_
YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION Y. M. C. A. Spent Nearly 98 Million During War
A financial statement just issued by the Y. M. C. A. on its receipts and expenditures during the war shows that $123,- 346.508.09 was the total received in all campaigns. Miscel- laneous donations, interests on deposits and securities and in- come bring the total receipts to $125,282,859.54.
A total expenditure of $97,817,005.50 was made. One item of expenditure set forth in the statement is $1,478,084.14, loss on operation of canteens.
Expenditures for work with the allied armies totaled $16,- 042.695.96 and with prisoners of war. $1,058,591.12.
There were 11,229 secretaries and war workers sent over- seas. Fourteen were killed in action or died of wounds and 71 died of disease. One hundred and five were wounded or gassed. During the Argonne drive 700 secretaries were with the troops.
Twelve men from Houston served overseas as secretaries with the Y. M. C. A., and many others from this city served in various camps throughout the States.
The Y. M. C. A. distributed 5.500.000 copies of the New Tes- tament and 20.000.000 copies of other religious pamphlets. In the United States they built 1000 huts and in h'rance 1965. Over 1300 automobiles were used overseas.
REPORT OF WAR COUNCIL OF YOUNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
JMiss Marguerite Stuart was in France fur probably a year working with a unit of Johns Hopkins Hospital nurses, fur- nishing recreation and other hostess house activities.
Miss Edith Akroyd left this city in the spring of 1918 to take up work in France with the girls of munition factories and at this time is still there, working with the brides of our returning soldiers who are often held at Brest, one of the transfer points of debarkation, until their passage can be ar- ranged. The service that she is able to render them is varied. She acts as interpreter, chaperon, hostess and confidante, and in any other capacity in which she is needed.
Miss Ruth Bradbury, who came to Houston from the Na- tional Board of the Y. W. C. A., was in the recreation work for many months, followed by Miss Julia Hogan of Dallas, Texas. The work of these two women was principally the entertainment of soldiers and the transient girl, who, of course, as you know, rushed into our city in great numbers. There
78 Y. W. C. A.
was a great deal of unrest among young women at that time because of the young men of their famihes and acquaintances having been taken from them. We found that there should be a normal outlet for their emotions and energies and recre- ation was the finest medium at that time.
Miss Agnese Carter, now Mrs. Nelms, who is living in England, was a very active and conscientious war worker. She organized and developed the Patriotic League work which was an organization of young women who had pledged them- selves to maintain a high standard of living, both physical and moral.
Every phase of Y. W. C. A. work was tinctured by the war situation. There were all kinds of Red Cross classes, First Aid, Home Nursing, and large groups of girls nightly with needle and gauze as well as many benefits given for war suf- ferers, the adoption of French children, manning Liberty Loan booths and selling War Stamps.
They held themselves as an organization in readiness to throw their support behind any effort made toward the wel- fare of our boys or the steadying of our girls during those critical months.
The following well known people were members of the Y. W. C. A. War Council :
Mrs. J. A. Baker, 1416 Main St., Preston 388.
Mrs. Harris Masterson, 3702 Burlington, Hadley 1055.
Mrs. Sterling Myer, 4 Courtlandt, Hadley 2395.
Mrs. Frank Andrews, 911 Bell, Preston 6484.
Mrs. Luke Bradley, 2616 Travis, Hadley 215.
Mrs. States Jacobs, 2101 Main, Hadley 1874.
Miss Harriet Levy, 2016 Main, Hadley 2338.
Mrs. Howard Smith, 2204 Main, Hadley 1175.
Mrs. P. B. Timpson, 2018 La Branch, Hadley 1348.
Mrs. F. W. Vaughn, 233 W. Alabama, Preston 3366.
Mrs. W. B. Chew, No. 4 Beaconsfield.
Mrs. Geo. Noble, 3618 Yoakum, Preston 3366.
Mrs. Thornwell Fay, No. 3 Beaconsfield, Hadley 286.
Mrs. Max Taub, 2016 Travis, Hadley 1319.
Mrs. Ella Guggenheim, 1510 Walker.
Mrs. Jesse Andrews, 232 Hawthorne, Hadley 2081.
Mrs. H. B. Fall, 43 Savoy, Hadley 1385.
Mrs. E. A. Lovett, 3915 Brandt, Hadley 1349.
Mrs. A. S. Cleveland, 8 Courtlandt, Hadley 225.
Mrs. J. C. Proctor, No. 22 Courtlandt, Hadley 4220.
Mrs. R. W. Knox, 2204 Louisiana, Hadley 244.
Mrs. Palmer, Hadley 605.
Mrs. Ellis, No. 84 Beaconsfield.
OFFICERS
79
COLONEL CHAS. J. KIRK
Colonel Charles J. Kirk, one of Houston's livest wires, is of Irish an- cestry, an honest-to-God Irishman, born in Texas August 15, 1875.
Early in life he was flung into the maelstrom of politics and since has taken a leading part in shaping the policies of Texas democracy.
He has. what has been termed, a peculiar bent for "secretarying." He is now, and has been in the past, sec- retary of some of the strongest civic and fraternal organizations in Texas. He served for several years as sec- retary of the State Democratic Ex- ecutive Committee ; secretary of the Security and Development Comjiany ; secretary of the well known and vastly popular Red Roosters ; secretary of the Houston Lions' Club ; secretary of the Houston Permanent Exposition Company.
He is also president of the Kirk Oil Com|)any with large holdings in the oil belt of Texas ; president of the State Elks' Association; president of the Houston Drilling Company; past chancellor commander of the Knights of Pythias ; past exalted ruler of Elks ; past noble grand of Texas Odd Fellows ; past counsellor of the Texas Woodmen of the World.
Col. Kirk is an active member of the Houston Chamber of Commerce and the Houston Salesmanship Club.
When war was declared against the central powers of Eu- rope he became actively engaged in war work, serving as chair- man of draft board Xo. 3 of Houston ; was vice-chairman of the Red Cross drives of 1917-18; member of the committee on all five of the Liberty Bond drives and member of the wel- come home committee for returned soldiers.
In the spring of 1918 he was authorized to organize the 8th Texas Infantry for active service. When the regiment was organized and accepted by the Federal Government he was commissioned colonel and retains that rank. The outfit, al- though designated for draft into the United States Army, did not see active duty, because of the sudden ending of the war.
Col. Kirk served as a commissioned ofificer in the Texas Infantry in the 7th Army Corps during the Spanish-American
80 OFFICERS
war, and afterwards as a captain in the quartermaster depart- ment of the National Guard.
There is never a movement or campaign to develop the civic, commercial or industrial life of Houston that he is not one of the foremost leaders. And politically his friends insist he has not yet reached the topmost rung of the ladder but is well on the way.
Col. Kirk is married and his home in Houston is ever the gathering place of unstinted hospitality and good fellowship.
BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN A. HULEN
Was born in Centralia, Missouri, in 1871, His military career started in 1890 from the rank of first sergeant of an infantry company in his home town of Gainesville, Texas, and has risen through the different grades to Brigadier General, to which he was appointed in Mav, 1916. He served as Adjutant Gen- eral of Texas from 1903 to 1907.
His service in the United States Army has covered a period of five years in the grades of Captain, Major, Lieutenant-Col- onel and Brigadier General.
In the Spanish-American war he was Major and Lieutenant- Colonel of the First Texas Cavalry.
During the Phihppine Insurrection, he was Captain in the 33rd U. S. Infantry. Here he participated in the Gillmore Relief Expedition and was recommended for Brevet Major for conspicuous gallantry in action in the Battle of Tagnadan Mountain.
Under the President's call of May 9, 1916, he served as Brigadier General on the Mexican Border in command of Texas troops and the Sixth Separate Brigade until his com- mand was mustered out in March, 1917.
He was appointed Brigadier General of the National Army in August, 1917, and served in command of the 72nd Infantry Brigade, 36th Division, in its entire training period at Camp Bowie, Texas, and in France throughout the war, command- ing this unit in all of its front line and battle experiences. For distinguished services in the Champagne (Meuse-Argonne) offensive, he was awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Government.
General Hulen is a veteran of three wars, the Spanish-Amer- ican war, the Philippine Insurrection and the World War, and wears the campaign badges of each of them, as well as the Mexican Border Campaign badge.
OFFICERS 81
MAJOR ALBERT E. DEVINE, Sr.
Major Albert E. Devine. Sr., commanded the 117th Supply Train of the Rainbow Division all during their eighteen months in France and the splendid work they did, often under most difficult conditions, is part of the history of that famous division. Although past the age when any positive duty rested on him to enter the service, j\Iajor Devine volunteered at the first call and was commissioned Major in the Texas National Guard. General Hulen placed him in command of the Supply Train of the Guard, consisting of six companies. His oft'icers and men were mostly raw and unfamiliar with military life, but Major Devine took hold of his organization with energy and soon brought it to such a state that it was selected as the unit to represent Texas in the now celebrated Rainbow Divi- sion.
During the Spanish-American war ]\lajor Devine was ap- pointed Quartermaster of the First Texas Infantry and when General John A. Hulen was Adjutant General of Texas Major Devine was with him as Colonel and Quartermaster.
Major Devine was born in San Antonio, Texas, hut n(.)w lives in Houston.
CAPTAIN ALBERT E. DEVINE, Jr.
Cai)tain Albert E. Devine, Jr.. is the son of Major and Mrs. Albert E. Devine, Sr., formerly of San Antonio but now resi- dents of Houston. He commanded the Hcad(|uarters Co. 143d Infantry during the training of the 36th Division at Fort Worth, and in October, 1918, headed that organization during the offensive of the 36th in the Champagne in France.
In July, 1917, Captain Devine was promoted from a second lieutenancy in the Third Texas Infantry and a])p()intcd Regi- mental Adjutant and commanding officer of the Headquarters Co., 143rd Infantry, which company he organized in Houston, being composed mostly of men from this city. During 1916 and 1917 Captain Devine served on the Mexican Border and as Assistant Brigade .\djutant on the staff of Cicneral John A. Hulen.
MAJOR SAM BECKER
Major vSam I^.ecker was born Octol)cr 15, 1890. His father and mother are Mr. and Mrs. Harris Becker of San Antonio. He entered officers training camp at Leon Springs, Texas, May 12th, remained two months, when he received his api)oint- ment as First Lieutenant August 5, 1917. He organized Motor Truck Coni])any in record time of 36 hours, sailed from the
82 OFFICERS
United States October 31, 1917, arrived at Brest, France, on November 12, promoted to Captain May 12, 1918.
He was placed in command of 117th Supply Train for famous Rainbow Division, Cologne, Germany, June 13, 1918.
Promoted to Major March 6, 1919. His home is in Houston.
COL. CLARK WREN
On May 9, 1916, as First Lieutenant of Infantry, Clark Wren was ordered into Federal service on the Mexican Border. Shortly after that he was made Aide de Camp for Brigadier General John A. Hulen, who commanded the Texas Brigade on the Border at that time. Shortly after this he was detailed for duty in the office of Department Judge Advocate, Southern Department, at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where he remained during most of the Border service.
In June, 1917, he was promoted to be a Major and in August, 1917, was assigned to duty as Judge Advocate of the 36th Divi- sion and stationed at Camp Bowie, Texas. In the latter part of June, 1918, the 36th Division began its journey to France and he arrived at Brest on July 31. He remained as Judge Advocate until after the armistice, when he was sent to Paris detailed for work at the Lyiquidation Commission. In May, 1919, at his request he was returned home for discharge. He arrived in the United States on May 22 and was discharged in Washington on May 27, 1919. On November 9, 1918, he was promoted to the grade of Lieutenant Colonel.
CAPTAIN J. LEWIS THOMPSON
At the beginning of the great war Captain Thompson went into East Texas, his old home district, and personally organ- ized Company F of the old 5th Texas National Guard. Captairt Thompson knew the parents of the boys and he personally gave his word that the boys would be under his care and pro- tection and that he would look out for them as if they were his own boys. The boys came to Houston and joined the com- pany here. The company was later consolidated with D Com- pany of the 5th Texas and finally became H Company of the 143rd Infantry. Captain Thompson's service was of such a high order that he was recommended for promotion to the grade of Major, which was not perfected on account of the ending of the war.
OFFICERS 83
COL. E. B. GUSHING
Col. E. B. Cushing entered the service as major and was soon promoted to colonel. He is a member of one of Houston's old- est families. Col. Cushing had charge of transportation of supplies in France; it was his business to see that they got there. Snow, rain, mud, mountains or swollen streams, noth- ing deterred him. He built bridges or otherwise, anyway he got there. At one time he built a bridge that seemed impos- sible in so short a time and when the French officers compli- mented him on his achievement he said: "That's nothing; that's the way we do things in Texas."
MAJOR DALLAS MATTHEWS' MILITARY RECORD
Enlisted in the Houston Light Guard on March 1, 1900; was made captain of that organization on February 15, 1Q05. which rank and assignment he held until promoted to grade of Major on June 4, 1917. Commanded the Houston Light Guard while on border service from May 10, 1916. to the time of promotion.
Brigade Adjutant, 72nd Infantry Brigade (36th Division), September 20, 1917, to October 3^ 1918. Commanded Third Battalion. 7th Infantry (Third Division), Novemlx'r 10. 1918, to date of discharge, September 17, 1919.
Arrived at Brest on July 31, 1918. and served in France until December 1, 1918, on which day he entered Germany with the Army of Occupation and served along the Rhine until August 10, 1919. Major Matthews has resided in Houston since No- vember 3, 1895.
MILITARY RECORD OF COL. JOHN S. HOOVER
Enlisted Company A. 1st Texas Infantry (Houston Light Guard), February, 1896. Responded to President's Call, Span- ish-American \\ar, May, 1898. Appointed second lieutenant Infantry June 4th and assigned to Company H. 1st U. S. V. Mustered out October 28, 1898. Re-enlisted Company A (Houston Light Guard), 1st Texas Infantrv, April, 1899. Elected second lieutenant Houston Light Guard June, 1890, first lieutenant July, 1890. Appointed major Infantry January 1901, lieutenant colonel January, 1914. Responded to Presi- dent's Call May, 1916. Reported to Fort Sam Houston, Texas, May 12. Detailed for general recruiting duty l)v Department Commander on June 4, 1916, to February 20,' 1917. Mustered out March 26. 1917. called back into service March 31, 1917. A])pointe(l Colonel of Infantry June 4, 1917, and organized 5th
84 OFFICERS
Texas Infantry, which was drafted into the service August 5, 1917. On October 17 the 3rd and 5th Texas Infantry were consolidated and was designated 143rd Infantry, U. S. A. Col. Hoover was placed in command of this regiment. The 143rd Infantry trained at Camp Bowie, Texas, and sailed for France July 17, 1918. Landed at Brest July 31 and took station at Soulaines. Regiment moved into the front sector September 26, and was in reserve at Conde-Sur-Marne, moved into the front line October 9 and relieved the 9th and 23rd U. S. In- fantry. The regiment was in the front line from October 9 until October 28, and was in the sector known as Champagne. The 143rd Infantry made a drive of 21 kilometres on October 12. Colonel Hoover was in command of the regiment during the fight; left France January 4, 1919; arrived in the United States January 18. Discharged May 3, 1919.
Colonel Hoover was called "Dad" by the men in his regi- ment, which shows the high esteem in which he was held by his men.
The Houston Light Guards were all distinctively Houston •men : Major P. R. Denman, Major J. R. Ricker, Captain Mun- ford W. Hoover, Captain Eugene Sanguinet, Captain Lewis Thompson, Captain C. C. Bevins, Captain August De Zavala, Captain Ross C. Croft.
CAPTAIN H. L. BENNETT SPENT TWENTY-SIX MONTHS IN A. E. F.
As a member of the First Division, Regular Army, which was the first American fighting unit to arrive in France, the first to move to the front, the first to suffer casualties, the first to inflict casualties, the first to attack the enemy and the first to be attacked. Captain Harry L. Bennett, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Bennett, 709 Calhoun Street, lays claim to have been in France longer than any other Houston boy. Captain Bennett arrived in the United States August 12 after an ab- sence of 26 months with the American Expeditionary Forces.
Denoting more than two years overseas service, Captain Bennett wears four gold service stripes on his left arm and two gold stripes, denoting wounds, on his right arm. He had been cited for bravery a number of times and has been recom- mended for the Distinguished Service Cross. Both wounds were suffered during 1918.
OFFICERS
85
MRS. K. SOULE
Cap. Horace Soule Mrs. K. Soule Lieut. E. C. Soule
Mother of Capt. Horace Soule
and Liet. E. C. Soule
Mrs. Soule has always done good work in Houston, espe- cially with her chnrcli ( tlie First Methodist) and the W. C. T. U.
CAPTAIN SOULE
Captain Horace Soule was sent to Kelly Field in September, 1917. He was first adjutant of the Concentration Brigade and later transferred to First Training Brigade and later promoted to be adjutant of the Trades Division, then made assistant ad- jutant of the brigade and later he became adjutant.
Captain Soule was instrumental in the intelligent handling of nearly 200.000 recruits, who were passing through this post at the time.
LIEUTENANT EDGAR C. SOULE
First Lieutenant Edgar Clarke Soule entered the Second Of- ficers' Training Camp at Leon Springs, Texas, in August. 1917, graduating with the rank of Second Lieutenant of Artillery. Soon after the school closed, Lieutenant Soule was transferred to the Oround Officers. Aviation Division, at Rich Field. Waco. He remained here for three weeks and was then ordered over- seas. Arriving at Garden City. L. I., he was transferred to a permanent squadron with the rank of First Lieutenant and re- mained at Garden City. P>efore the signing of the armistice Lieutenant Soule was recommended for the rank of Ca])tain.
86
OFFICERS
DILTZ BROTHERS
'-!» n,.
~:s98:&,4LiL*4^!J^ %-.
Donald Diltz Mrs. Charles F. Diltz W. R. Diltz
Whitelaw Reid Diltz enlisted August 4, 1918, left Houston August 8 for Camp Cody, New Mexico, leaving Camp Cody August 25 with the 34th Sandstorm Division, 109th Ammuni- tion Train, for Camp Dix, N. J. Left Camp Dix for overseas October 15, reaching Bordeaux, France, October 25; remained there until December 24, when ordered home, returning to the States January 5. Discharged February 3, 1919.
Donnell Diltz enlisted in June, 1917, with Dr. Cody's Ambu- lance Company No. 357, in training at Camp Travis from Aug- ust 3 to February 25, 1918 ; then was transferred to Camp Lo- gan to 5th Division, Ambulance Company No. 17; left Houston May 13, 1918, arrived overseas June 4.
Battles Engaged: Vosges Sector, June 19 to 22; St. Mihiel offensive, September 12 to 16 ; Meuse Argonne offensive, Octo- ber 11 to November 11, 1918. Returned to the States July. Discharged August 4, 1919.
Donald Diltz citation for bravery : Ambulance Co. No. 17, Medical Dept., the 5th Sanitary Train, on October 17, 1918, when their ambulance loaded with patients was obstructed by traffic congestion and the road was under heavy shell fire helped to carry patients to the shelter of a nearby dugout. Im- mediately after completing this work their ambulance was struck by a shell and wrecked. Without regard for personal safety these two men saved the lives of nine patients in their chargfe.
OFFICERS
87
DR. PHILO A. HOWARD
Dr. Philo A. Howard, a prominent physician and surgeon of Houston, who enhsted in the medical corps and was commissioned a captam, sent to Camp Greenleaf at Fort Og-lethorpe, Ga., from which point he was sent to a base hospital, where he directed operations in bone sur- gery.
Captain Howard is a son of A. R. Howard, treasurer of the Interna- tional & Great Northern Railway, and a brother of David S. Howard, senior lieutenant in the United States Navy, now serving in foreign waters. Another brother is George F. Howard, Secretary of State. Dr. Howard is prominently known in Houston, being a Mason and Shriner, a member of the Thalian and University Clubs, and a past president of the Harris County Medical Society. He is a graduate of the Uni- versity of Pennsylvania in medicine and a fellow in the Amer- ican College of Surgeons.
Before joining the colors he was chief surgeon of the (lulf Coast Lines, the Trinity & Brazos River Valley Railroad and the Galveston. Houston & lienderson Railroad. He was for- merly division surgeon of the International & Great Northern Railway.
His wife worked constantly with Red Cross and is also presi- dent of Montrose School Mothers' Club, where she is highly appreciated.
Dr. and Mrs. 1 loward have two children, little Miss Eugenia, who is very entertaining, and Master Alfred Ryland Howard.
CAPTAIN F. M. DYER
Captain F. M. Dyer trained at Camj) Stanley, Leon Springs, from which he graduated as first lieutenant soon after being promoted to captain. He is now camp adjutant at Camp Tra- vis.
Lieut. B. H. Dyer graduated at Camp Pike and was made instructor, serving six months. Died soon after demobilization.
Captain and Lieutenant Dyer are sons of Mrs. Alfred S. Dyer and nephews of Mrs. Thomas R. Franklyn. Both of these ladies have lived and been of great service to Houston for more than 60 vears.
OFFICERS
MAJOR KLINE
Dr. L. B. Kline was educated at the George Washington University, Class 1907, and began practice in Texas in 1908. He was chairman of the Medical Milk Commission in 1909. He was a post-graduate stu- dent of Transylvania University in 1911. He then became a medical missionary to the Philippine Islands in 1912-1917. While there was the founder and organizer of the Vigan Christian Hospital. He entered the World War in 1918 as first lieuten- ant. Manager of Clinics at base hos- pital. Camp Dodge, 1919. Was com- missioned Captain of Medical Corps
and attached to Base Hospital No. 77, France. Returned from France in 1919 and was commissioned Major M. R. C. He was placed in charge of City Health Office, Houston, Texas, May, 1919. Dr. Kline is a young man of great promise. He has taken hold of the health problems of the city in a masterly way. His first great ambition is to establish a municipal hos- pital. This project bids fair to fruition.
A. W. LARKIN
A. W. Larkin has the distinction of serving longer in the World War than any other Houstonian. He went to Canada at 18 and enlisted with the Canadian forces and served with the British four and one-half years.
Private Larkin saw a German aeroplane receive a direct hit from a British anti-aircraft. It was the only case known during the war, he said. The plane was making an attack on an observation balloon when the shell hit. The plane was blown completely to bits and not a trace was found.
Later he saw one of the greatest shell holes made during the war. It was 41 feet across the top and 23 feet deep.
Larkin wears on his tunic a service bar of five stripes, and nearly every stripe stands for a medal that he expects to re- ceive "in a couple of years." There is the much prized ribbon of 1914-15 Star, a medal to every man on active service in that time ; the American volunteer, a medal to every American who served with the allies before the United States entered the war; the Allied Ribbon and the British service medal.
OFFICERS 89
ROSTER OF HOUSTON DOCTORS WHO LEFT THEIR BUSINESS TO SERVE THEIR COUNTRY
E. M. Arnold. C. M. Aves. C. W. Avdam. T- E. Clark. E. F. Cook, W. L. Culpeper. C. C. Cody, R. K. Dawes. L. Daily, P. R. Denman, T. A. Dickson, W. E. Dodge, R. M. Fancher, H. C. Feagan. A. H. Flickwir. J. H. Foster, J. F. Gamble, J. P. Gibbs, F. S. Glover, C. C. Green, E. L. Goar, A. E. Greer, C. W. Griff- ith, G. D. Grimes, Gordan Grimland. D. Greer, L. L. Handlev, C. B. Harwood, R. F. Herndon, T- A. Hill. G. Hamilton. S. P. Israel, H. L. D. Kirkham, J. Allen Kyle, C. P. Jones, G. W. Larendon, E. H. Lancaster, G. K. Lechenger, L. J. Logue, F. R. Lummis, J. B. Legnard. S. M. Lister, W. W. McMurrav, W. P. Meredith, J. C. Michael. Solon Milton. S. H. Moore. R. T. Alorris. J. T. Moore. M. V. Moth, E. C. Murray. A. J. Mynatt. F. G. Parkhill. G. D. Parker, C. F. Payne. J. E.'Pritch- ett, W. E. Ramsey, W. W. Ralston, E. F. Robbins. P. H. Scar- dino. I. W. Scott. G. H. Spurlock. M. B. Stokes. B. W. Turner, J. L. Taylor, W. M. Wier. R. D. Wilson. W. O. Williams. A. E. White. C. B. Young.
THREE BROTHERS WHO SERVED IN FRANCE
Sergeant Alex M. Wolf enlisted in the Third Cavalr}- in June, 1917. and received his first training at Cam]) Travis. He went overseas October. 1917. and landed at an l\nglish port, and after si)en(ling a few days at an Ivnglish rest camp, was sent to Burbanne-les-Bains.
Private Nat S. Wolf enlisted in the Quartermaster Corps on November 15, 1917, and received his training at Camp John- ston, Florida, sailing for France in June, 1018. ^\•ith the 310th Supply Comj^any. Q. M. C, and has been on duty at a base su])ply depot in the S. O. S.. also serving as freight convoy to the advance de])ots.
Private I. J. W'uli enlisted on May 6. 1918. and was i)lace(l witli tlie .S59th Infantry of the 90th Division. He saw service at St. Mihiel and in the Argonne Forest as regimental runner. He went over the top several times and the last report from him was that he was resting on the Rhine, waiting for the peace terms to be signed and a trip home.
CORPORAL OSCAR H. RYAN
Corporal Oscar H. Ryan, 2509 Prairie Avenue, wears the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in bat- tle. He was cited on two occasions by General Pershing; the first time at Faubuerg. France, on November 8, 1918, and at \'il]emontry. France. November 10, 1918. Corporal Ryan is a meml^er of Company K. 9th Infantry.
90 NURSES
ROLL OF HONOR
Every nurse in this Roll of Honor Nurses saw actual service in the World War :
Miss Mary Wood, Miss Lucy Brunson, Miss Carrie Sloan, Miss Hazel Braddick, Miss Elizabeth Jansing, Miss Agnes Bernis, Naval Hospital, Pensacola, Fla. ; Miss Harriet Mae, Evacuation Hospital No. 6, A. E. F. ; Miss Jean Dunnett, Evacuation Hospital 6, A. E. F. ; Miss Mary Massman, Camp Shelby, Hattiesburg, Miss. ; Miss Carrol Swan, Camp Johnston, Jacksonville, Fla.; Mrs. Grace Ingblad; Mrs. A. Latham, 132 Forest Street, Spartanburg, S. C. ; Miss Helen Lamborn, Base Hospital No. 5, B. E. F. ; Miss A. Saybrac, Evacuation Hospi- tal No. 2, A. E. F. ; Miss Jessie Burt, 329 North Street, Ports- mouth, Va. ; Miss Katherine Nylan, Miss Cora McKinley, Miss Mary Ryan, Somewhere in France ; Miss Willie Mae Mc- Cary, Camp Travis, San Antonio ; Miss Kathryn Donovan, Camp McArthur, Waco ; Miss Mary Becknell, Miss Mae O'Ha- ran. Miss B. Portress, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio; Miss Eva Todd, Naval Hospital, Gulfport, Miss. ; Miss Mary Pick- ard. Unit No. 102, Italy; Miss Jo Cooper, Baylor Unit, A. E. F. ; Miss Beatrice Shoemaker (Army) ; Miss Lora Maddox (Navy) ; Miss Estelle Hunt, Carothers Field, Fort Worth ; Miss Sabine Fritch, Public Health, Houston; Miss Le Fleur, Public Health, Chicago ; Miss Ida Thompson (Army) ; Miss Ruth Harris, Miss Florence Jamison, Camp Travis, San Antonio ; Miss Maud Neubauer, Miss Mollie Cheatam, Miss Emma Kotte, Miss Mary McLean, Miss Myrtle Grant, Great Lakes Training Station; Miss Francis Morrow, Miss Rosa Lane, Naval Base No. 7; Miss Sara Pevoteaux, Fort Bliss, El Paso; Mrs. E. D. Holmes, Walter Reed Hospital, Washington, D. C. ; Miss Fannie Bently, Miss Sayde Collins, Clinic No. 11, Scanlan Building, Houston ; Miss Elaine Brown, 4 Place de la Concorde, A. E. F., Paris ; Miss Virginia Perkins, Miss Flavia Brown, Miss Florence Parr, Miss Gertrude Brogan, Somewhere in France; Mrs. Florence Morris, Camp Logan, Houston; Miss Dessie Robinson, Fort Oglethorpe, Ga. ; Aliss Sallie Reagan, Naval Hospital, Gulfport, Miss.; Miss Jennie McMasters, Jackson Barracks, New Orleans ; Miss Ada Shubert, Camp Mc- Arthur, Waco ; Mrs. Dora Broaddus, Camp Wheeler, Macon, Ga. ; Miss Agnes Thielappe, Taliaferro Field, Texas ; Miss Em- ma Fischer, Miss Olga Fischer, Miss Charlotte Douglas, Miss Nema McShay, Miss Clara Pix, Miss Gertrude Franks, Camp Travis, San Antonio; Miss Maggie House, Miss Katie Early, Naval Base No. 7; Miss May Dolive (Army); Miss Troski, Naval Base, Philadelphia ; Miss Daisy Driver, Camp Travis, San Antonio ; Miss Martha Ross, Camp Bowie, Fort Worth.
The gold stars are : Miss Emma Kotte and Miss Myrtle Grant.
\\'AR CA^IP COMMUNITY SERVICE 91
War Camp Community Service
^^'ar Camp Community Service was inaugurated in Houston in the summer of 1917 as soon as the first pl:ans were made for the establishment of Camp Logan. Mr. Roy Smith Wal- lace, who was then District Representative and Orgaiiizer for the service, came to Houston and after several conferences with prominent people the Service was established in connec- tion with the Civic Department of the Chamber of Commerce. It was known as the War Service Commission. Clarence R. Wharton was appointed Executive Chairman and William B. Hopkins soon came to Houston to assist in conducting the work as community organizer. A program of activities was immediately mapped out with twenty committees covering various lines of hospitality and civic effort necessary to make the soldiers in the camps welcome and render them any pos- sible service during their frequent visits to the city. A big hospitality week was planned October 17 to 24, 1917, in which nearly every church, club, lodge and civic society participated and the men in Camp Logan were made to feel that they were more than welcome in Houston. On Jamiarv 1 Mr. Hopkins was transferred to take up other organization work for the War Camp Communit}- Service and John H. Snook of Detroit was assigned as community organizer for Houston. During the fall of 1917, in addition to the hospitality week, the Thalian Club was opened up as a soldier club and the Press Club was thrown open and later known as the Khaki Club, b'arly in December, 1917, the Houston Light Guard Association con- tributed the use of their spacious rooms for a soldier club and recreational canteen. Arrangements were entered into by the Wav Camp Community Service whereby the twenty-eight (28) women's clubs affiliated with the Federation of Women's Clubs were to act as hostesses and conduct the canteen. This Soldiers' Club became widely known among the men in the camps and came to be looked upon as home by thousands of visiting soldiers, sailors and marines. Mrs. W'. P>. Shar]) was chairman of the canteen and Mrs. A. C. Ford, commandant. Mrs. H. F. Ring was on the Executive Committee and hun- dreds of Plouston ladies acted as hostesses.
The members of the present Executive Committee are as follows : A. S. Cleveland, chairman ; William A. Wilson, Judge Chester H. Bryan, David Daly, Abe Levy, Supt. P. W. Vlorn, Miss Florence M. Sterling, treasurer; Mrs. W. B. Sharp, Mrs. lames A. llakt-r, C. W. Wedge, executive secretary.
92_ WAR CAMP COMMUNITY SERVICE
War Camp Community Service put on a varied program, never any set rules as to what the program would be, new ideas being created for the entertainment of soldiers from time to time; in this way it was possible to use many agencies and organizations in the various phases of the work. One of the features of the outdoor entertainments during the sum- mer of 1917 was the Texas watermelon parties given on the lawns of different citizens of Houston to different detachments of soldiers from Ellington Field and Camp Logan. At these parties the largest, juiciest and coolest melons on the market were cut open by the women's organizations in the city, who would be entertaining that night. 100 men were entertained in one group on the lawn of Miss Harriet Levy and Mrs. A. L. Nelms assisting. Others were held on the lawns of Mrs. James A. Baker, Mrs. R. C. Duff, Mrs. R. S. Sterling. A large water- melon party was also given at Hermann Park in co-operation with the Rotary Club at which 600 men were feasted on water- melons. Needless to say the men enjoyed these parties not only for the watermelons but for the surroundings and com- pany. They were brought in contact with Houston's best women citizens accompanied by their daughters, who were present at these affairs under the supervision of War Camp Community Service.
One of the first cities to take up the "Give a Soldier a Ride Movement" was Houston under the direction of War Camp Community Service. Small red circle stickers with the notice on it that this automobile will give a ride to any soldier going his way were placed on thousands of cars in Houston by the Boy Scouts. Later on after the armistice was signed and the men were returning home a sticker with "Welcome Home Victorious Sons, War Mothers of America" with War Camp Community Service insignia on them were placed on automo- bile windshields by the Boy Scouts, many thousands of these stickers were also on the windows of business houses and pri- vate homes and wherever a returned soldier happened to glance he was greeted by these welcome posters. The Boy Scouts rendered valuable service in distributing these stickers. They were supervised by George W. Powell and A. E. Adcock,
A party of unusual interest was given through War Camp Community Service at the summer home of Mrs. A. L. Nelms on the beach at Bay Ridge where their beautiful summer home, Mirimer, was thrown open to the officers and their wives and lady friends for an afternoon and evening of continuous pleas- ure. Bathing, dancing and refreshments were enjoyed by a large number of these officers and the hospitality of Mrs. Nelms was shown in real Southern style. The Clara Barton
W'AR CAMP COMMUNITY SERVICE 93
Chapter of the Red Cross, in co-operation with War Camp Community Service, remembered the men in camp who were ill in the hospitals by distributing several especially prepared Easter baskets. These baskets contained wonderfully colored Easter eggs. Needless to say the men in the hospitals were cheered by this friendly remembrance.
The men at the base hospital at Camp Logan after the ar- mistice had been signed were not having any entertainment to speak of so the authorities appealed to ^^'ar Camp Com- munity Service to send some entertainment to the conval- escent house for these men. Through the co-operation of the Prince Theatre and its management several good shows taken to the hospital at Camp Logan in the afternoons were enjoyed by all the convalescent patients in the camp. The Red Cross Motor Corps assisted in the furnishing of transportation for these affairs. One of the most beautiful activities partici- pated in by the War Camp Community Service, assisted by the school children and an especially appointed flower commit- tee from the ladies of Houston, was a rose shower sent to the men in the camp at the time of year when the roses of Hous- ton were at their best. This idea came from Mrs. John H. Snook, who being a lover of flowers herself, knew the men in camps would be cheered by being remembered by thousands of flowers from the people in town. There was some appre- hension felt at first that there would not be enough to go around, but the camp was literally showered with roses, mess halls, barracks, officers' quarters, headciuarters, hospital, guard house, and in fact a few minutes after the thirty-four automobiles containing the roses had entered camp every man in camp could be seen wearing one or more beautiful roses. There were two of these rose showers given, the last one being given carlv in the spring of 1919 and as l'"llington Field was the onh' oani[) in existence at that time twelve automobile loads of roses were taken to the camp, gathered by the school children of Houston and distributed by twelve volunteer auto- mol)ile cars.
The leisure time of the men on Sundays became a i)robleni, especially Sunday afternoon, and in looking forward to this War Camp Community Service put on a series of Sunday en- tertainments at the City Auditorium, varying the program so as to make it interesting and different each time. The programs consisted mainly of at least one patriotic address and always plenty of good music. The different bands at Camp Logan gave band concerts, much soldier talent was used in quartettes, solos and various other ways. The local musical fraternities of Houston gave of their ability very freely. Some
94 WAR CAMP COMMUNITY SERVICE
very noted speakers were heard and these concerts or enter- tainments had an average attendance of 3500 people.
One of the distinct and special pieces of work put on by the War Camp Community Service was its housing bureau, which found homes for many thousands of the officers and men in the camps, whose families came to be near them. This bureau was first in the hands of Mrs. Helen Jaquess, later on Mrs. Gladys Daly had charge of this. All the people of Hous- ton who had houses or rooms for rent would call the bureau, but before anyone was sent out to rent the place it was thor- oughly examined, the surroundings, location, cleanliness and the prices asked for the rent. In this way a man knew exactly beforehand what kind of a place he was about to rent. Need- less to say this form of service rendered valuable assistance to the men in that they did not have to spend time looking up a house when they were confident when they found one it would be a good place.
Dancing, of course, had a prominent part in the entertain- ment of the soldiers and officers of the camps. The Federated Women's Clubs, in co-operation with the War Camp Commu- nity Service, were able to get the Light Guard Armory and open it up as a Recreational Canteen for the enlisted men. The University Club, one of the most beautiful clubs in the city, was secured through War Camp Community Service as a club for the officers of the camps. The Theosophical Society club rooms were used both for the enlisted men and cadets, giving each division of the army thereby a special place to congregate. The Recreational Canteen was run under a very strict manner, there were twenty-eight women's clubs who had the entertaining at this canteen, each club with its com- mittee of chaperons would entertain one night, furnishing all the eats for that day, and home hospitality to the men as they came to town. In this way each club would entertain practi- cally once a month. A special hostess was employed by the War Camp Community Service to be at the club every day and in looking over the field Mrs. Eugene Blake was selected as the official hostess. Doubtless there are few women in the United States today who have so many pleasant acquaintances and remembrances as Mrs. Blake which she made during her service at the Recreational Canteen. She has many souvenirs and mementos, both given to and sent her by the different organizations of soldiers. Girls were admitted to the dance and other activities by card only. When a girl wanted to get one of these cards she would have to get two written recom- mendations signed by two local women of Houston who were known by War Camp Community Service. Consequently the
WAR CAJvIP COMMUNITY SERVICE 95
girls attending the canteen dances were some of the nicest girls of Houston.
During the spring of 1919 the canteen was moved from the Light Guard Armory to the City Auditorium banquet hall on the second floor. Practically the same arrangements were adhered to until August 31 when it was decided to hold two dances a week for the remainder of the season on the Carter Roof. The University Club was thrown open to officers only and their guests. This club provided an excellent club room and meeting place for all the officers with its spacious reading and writing room, billiard and pool tables, music and rest room. In connection the members of the University Club were always very cordial to the officers, making them feel entirely at home. Dances were given twice a week through the co-operation of the Pan-Hellenic Girls and several enter- tainments were given for the officers where the local theatres would furnish some of their best acts for these affairs. The Theosophical Society threw open their club rooms to the cadets and enlisted men of the various camps by holding three dances a week at which chaperons were provided. Miss Ada Schaeffer and Mrs. H. L. Robertson acted as chaperons and assisted in entertaining the men. Through these three club rooms many thousands of men and officers were entertained at these parties. The women of the city lent invaluable service by assisting in chaperoning and serving refreshments and eats and in other ways. This was one of the best means the men had of meeting the real worth-while people of the city. Many of the men who met people at these dances and club rooms received invitations to home affairs and the home hospitality extended by the people of Houston to these soldiers will never be forgotten by the men in the camps. The great Allied War Exposition sent out by the United States Government con- taining war trophies from every one of the allied countries was exhibited in Houston under the auspices of the Y. M. B. L. War Camp Community Service assisted in this exposition by having an Ellington Field Day at which the men of Ellington P'ield received transportation and tickets to the exposition at reduced prices with the War ^Mothers entertaining them in the afternoon with light refreshments and a dance. Dur- ing the Fifth Liberty Loan Drive War Camp Community Serv- ice turned over its central office at 925 Texas Avenue to the local Liberty Loan Committee and the entire Victory Loan for Harris County was sold out of War Camp Community Service office. The sailors and navy men who arrived in Hous- ton were always looked after by the Mothers of the Navy, many times the War Camp Communitv Service co-operating
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with them in entertaining these men. One of the well to be remembered entertainments was that given the officers and men of the U. S. Destroyers Biel and Ammen, who arrived in port to assist in advertising the Liberty Loan. The sailors were entertained first with an automobile ride around the city in cars furnished by the Automobile Dealers' Association, Moth- ers of the Navy and a committee headed by Mrs. F. M. Court. Immediately following the automobile ride the men were guests of Messrs. Doak Roberts and Otto Sens at the Hous- ton ball park where one of the Texas League ball games was being played. Following this they were taken to the Red Cross Canteen at the Grand Central Depot, where the Red Cross workers under the direction of Mrs. Gilliland served them supper. After that the regular weekly show at the Majestic Theatre was open free with special reserved seats on the three front rows, following which a dance was held for them in the Theosophical Society club rooms where the Mothers of the Navy served refreshments and entertained the men until 12 :30, at which time they were loaded on special street cars and taken back to their ships, all claiming it a per- fect day. Practically the same entertainment was given by the Mothers of the Navy and War Camp Community Service to the men of the U. S. Destroyer Comanche and the captured U-Boat U-88. A special feature of this program was a flower shower given by the Mothers of the Navy, each boat received two large bouquets of Houston flowers, one for the ofl^icers and one for the men. The War Camp Community Service and the Red Cross co-operated at the depots in welcoming home soldiers of detachments who did not belong in Houston, some who were merely passing through, who would of course receive attention from the canteen workers, but if they stayed in Houston any length of time the Red Cross would notify War Camp Community Service and some sort of entertainment would be put on for them. After the armistice was signed it became a problem to help the soldier return to civilian life and to find jobs for the returning men. War Camp Community Service was asked by the War Department to fill this need and in nearly every city where War Camp Community Service was established a special man was put on to look after the employment of the returned soldiers. Lieut. J. C. Fenn was given charge of the Houston Special Soldiers' Employment Office and up to September 1 he had placed 1500 men in re- sponsible positions throughout the city.
Community singing was also conducted through War Camp Community Service, Roscoe Snyder being secured as commu- nity song organizer for War Camp Community Service in
WAR CAMP COMMUNITY SERVICE 97
Houston. Singsongs were held in the different playgrounds, business houses, parks, at noonday business men's luncheons, churches and in fact everywhere the people would gather Mr. Snyder would have them singing. There is no form of amuse- ment that has added more greatly to both soldier and civilian morale than singing. During the war many of the leaders in the camps found that by having singsongs and getting the men to singing earh- in the morning they would generally keep it up all day. Consequentl}' community singing developed out of the war and will continue through peace times.
Early in April the first of the overseas troops began arriving home and in order to welcome them home a large committee appointed by War Camp Community Service to be the official welcome home committee of the city approved by the mayor were appointed as follows : Mayor Amerman. A. J. Dow, Jr.. Peter Gray Sears, Col. Jo S. Rice, George E. Kepple. Thos. Kehoe, E. A. Hudson, T. H. Dickson, John Freeman. Palmer Hutcheson, Ben S. Davison, E. C. Rousell, Col. C. J. Kirk, Col. Jacob F. Wolters, Mrs. F. L. Dana, Mrs. M. B. Kelly, Mrs. Sam Kaiser, Miss F. M. Sterling, Mrs. M. A. Toy, Mrs. H. F. Ring. The first troops of Houston men to arrive home were the 132d Field Artillery, who reached here on Sunday. April 6th. One of the grandest welcome liomcs imaginable was given these troops. They arrived at the Union Station about 4:00 p. m. and fully 10,000 people were at the station where the welcome home committee had arranged with a sub-committee a rose shower and as the men rolled into the station they were greeted by the Lewis city band, yells from everybody present, the booming (jf Timmons' cannon, and thousands of roses were showered upon them. After a short stay at the depot giving the relatives a chance to meet the boys, the men were marched to the City Auditorium amid packed streets, fully 75.000 people lining the streets to see the men pass. At the Auditorium they were served with refreshments. Over four hundred home-made cakes, hot coffee, sandwiches, candy, fruit, ice cream and cigarettes, all donated by the different merchants of the city and served by the women of the vari- ous clubs of the city. The hall was decorated with flowers, American flags, ferns donated by the florists of the city and taken care of by a committee under the direction of Mrs. C. K. Wilbanks. At the head of every parade were the four allied silk flags loaned by W. C. Munn Co. with men from his employ to carry them. The welcome home given the troops was a stupendous undertaking. Relatives from all over the country literally thronged the office of War Camp Community Service for information regarding the return of the troops.
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In this respect much praise is due the traffic managers of the Southern Pacific and Gulf Coast Lines, Mr. McClure and Mr. Meeks, who co-operated in every way possible. From April 6 on to early in August thousands of men were welcomed back to Houston, the program varying very little as it was the idea to give each bunch of men the same welcome the others received. Exceedingly high praise is due the women of the city who gave their time and labor unsparingly to the wel- come home committee in arranging these affairs. Hundreds of women worked all day long and often into the night to help welcome the boys home. The merchants of the city con- tributed freely refreshments for the affairs. Practically every- thing that was provided for the boys was given free gratis. The Red Cross Canteen workers under the direction of Mrs. Gilliland co-operated with the War Camp Community Service in the welcome homes and many troops who were unable to get to the Auditorium were given eats of all description at the station by the canteen workers. The 36th and 90th Divisions were the two largest divisions arriving, practically all arriv- ing in one week, in which War Camp Community Service committees worked night and day taking care of these men in true Houston style.
The following are some of the committees assisting War Camp Community Service during its existence in Houston: Soldier Club Committee— H. P. Ellis, Mrs. A. C. Ford, Mrs. Bradley, Mr. W. D. Cleveland, Mr. Spotts, Mr. Noble. Music Committee — Mrs. Edna W. Saunders, Mrs. J. Allen Kyle, Miss Ima Hogg, Mrs. Turner Williamson, Miss Florence Sterling. Memorial Committee — Judge Edwin B. Parker, James Shel- ton, A. J. Dow, Jr., Mayor Amerman. Home Hospitality Com- mittee—Mrs. H. B. Fall, chairman; Mrs. R. W. Knox, Mrs. W. G. Love, Mrs. John Parker, Mrs. S. F. Carter. Church Hospitality Committee — Mrs. W. F. Wilson, chairman ; Mrs. R. E. Burt, Mrs. Kate J. Higgins, Mrs. Jesse Andrews, Miss Harriet Levy.
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HISTORY OF COLORED DEPARTMENT OF WAR CAMP COMMUNITY SERVICE
July 25 Through September 18, 1919 Introductory Data
In May, 1919, Mr. E. T. Atwell, traveling representative in Colored Work, made a survey of Houston for the purpose of planning for a Department of Colored Work in case condi- tions justified the creation of the same. Mr. E. T. Atwell and Mr. J. H. Snook, formerly community organizer of Houston, prepared a three thousand dollar ($3000.00) budget for Colored Work, which budget provided for a Community Center for returned soldiers and for entertainments to be given at the same. In June this budget was granted by National Head- quarters and an attempt was made to secure as special assist- ant in Colored Work some one who had successfully overcome difficulties similar to those facing Colored Work in Houston. To this end V. E. Daniel, who was in charge of the Depart- ment of Colored Work of the Norfolk War Camp Community Service, was transferred to Houston, arriving on the evening of July 25. Mr. C. W. Wedge, Community Organizer, in- structed Mr. J. W. Beard, Associate Community Organizer, to co-operate with Mr. Daniel in the establishment of a Red Circle Recreational Center to be named the Victory Club. The club is located at the corner of Milam Street and Prairie Ave- nue, in the heart of the colored business section.
After inspection by the social workers of Houston, the War Mothers and the Executive Committee the Victory Club was formally opened to the public on Thursday evening, August 2h
The Opening of the Victory Club
After giving a short history of the Red Circle movement V. E. Daniel, Special Assistant in Colored Work, introduced Mr. J. W. Beard, Associate Director, who gave an account of the establishment of the club. Mr. Beard introduced Mr. C. W. Wedge, Community Organizer, who presented the club to the soldiers and citizens on behalf of War Camp Community Service. Prof. E. O. Smith, Vice-Chairman of the Advisory Council in Colored Work, responded on behalf of citizens and Advisory Council. Then followed the presentation of the club by Judge Chester H. Bryan on behalf of the Executive Com- mittee, after which Lieut. J. L. Hubert accepted the club on the part of the soldiers. V. E. Daniel then presented Miss C.
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O. McDowell, who had been assigned to Houston as Special Assistant in Recreational Work for girls and young women. Musical numbers were rendered by Mr. Percy Foster of the "Y" and Mr. W. S. DeLeston, a Spanish war veteran. The facilities of the club include a reading and writing room, rec- reation hall and an auditorium. Office space is provided and provision is made for canteen service and some work in do- mestic science.
Organization
Because of the large number of people interested in Com- munity Service it was found necessary to arrange for a large Advisory Council in Colored Work, in the organization of which a special effort was made to build a machine which would work without friction. Prof. J. D. Ryan, Principal of Colored High, was appointed chairman and Prof. E. O. Smith, principal of one of the elementary schools, was appointed vice- chairman. Other members of the committee are : R. L. An- drews, grocer ; J. L. Blount, architect and teacher ; O. P. DeWalt, theatre manager ; C. A. Gilmore, editor and publisher ; F. J. Gray, barber; J. B. Grigsby, insurance executive; Rev. E. J. Howard, Methodist minister; J. W. Hubert, blacksmith; Dr. C. A. Jackson, specialist ; Lieut. Frank Lane, grocer ; Prof. W. E. Miller, school principal ; Dr. T. V. Overton, physician ; Prof. E. D. Pierson, High School teacher; Dr. B. R. Peters, optometrist; Mrs. M. Baker, of Business Influence; Mme. Rochon, music teacher, and Mrs. Mabel Wesley, school prin- cipal. Other committees are being formed for the purpose of handling the various phases of the War Camp Work.
Miss McDowell, who has charge of the Girls' Department, has organized an Advisory Committee in Colored Girls' Work. Mrs. A. Z. Hester is the chairman of this committee and Mrs. T. M. Fairchild is the vice-chairman. Other members of the committee are : Mesdames Baker, Rochon and Wesley of the Colored Advisory Council ; Miss Thyra Edwards of the Hous- ton Social Service Bureau, and Mesdames Jno. Adkins, R. L. Andrews, D. D. Carter, J. N. Dodson, J. M. Frierson, G. C. Houston, E. S. Kennard, J. Vance Lewis, W. E. Miller, W. L. Perry, Wilfred Price, C. A. Scott, E. C. Scott and E. O. Smith. Besides, arrangements are being made for the ap- pointment of superintendents of Girls' Clubs.
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Entertainment
Each Wednesday night since the opening of the Victory Club there has been a musical and literary entertainment. Among those assisting in the mid-week musicales are : Mnie. Rochon of Advisory Council, Mrs. G. h. Birdwell, Mrs P. O. Smith all prominent workers in church choirs ; Cuney Foster, president of the "Y," Claudia Harper, pianist ; W. S. DeLeston, and Herbert Lott. violinists; Misses Bell. Ella Curtis, Irene Spencer and ^Ir. Birdwell. vocal soloists, and AIiss Thyra Edwards, reader, have also assisted in the programs.
Community Sing
Community sings have been held in connection with all of the gatherings at the Victory Red Circle Club. On the open- ing night Mr. Roscoe Snyder, song leader for Houston, di- rected the sing, while Mrs'. Hubert served as accompanist. At the mothers' meeting on September 11 Mme. Rochon of Advis- ory Council directed the sing, while Miss Plortense Houston presided at the piano. The first Wednesday sing was directed by Cuney Foster, Claudia Harper serving as pianist. The Sunday s'ing has been in charge of Prof, and Mrs. J. L. Blount and :M'r. Leroy Byrd. The Victory Club noonday sings which began September' 16. have been in charge of Mme. Rochon and Leroy Byrd, a discharged soldier. Henry Filmore and P.essie Peachy have assisted at the piano.
Co-Operation With Other Agencies
The Department of Colored Work is co-operating with local churches, schools, press, Y. M. C. A., Y. W. C. A., and the Dra- matical Association, and so far has not found this co-operation very difficult.
The organizations and the chairmen assisting War Camp Community Service in conducting the canteen during its oper- ation in Houston arc as follows : College Women's Club. Mrs. Caldwell ; Woodland Civic Club. Mrs. C. W. Crawford ; North Side Civic Club, Mrs. W. E. Gilliland ; Second Ward Civic Club, Mrs. Ida Fromm ; Houston Chapter Eastern Star. Mrs. Vann ; Mothers' Club Fannin School, Mrs. Robert Snyder, also Mrs. Dannenbaum ; Art League, Mrs. Lizzy Hay ; Robert E. Lee Chai)ter. D. U. C, Mrs. L. D. Fletcher; Choral Club, Mrs. F. M. Johnson; Maccabees, Mrs. Lucy B. Clark; Council Jewish Women, Mrs. Sam Kaiser; Child's Welfare League. Mrs. E.
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Ensign ; Volunteer Committee, Mrs. Phillips Gibbs, also Miss Mary Waldo; Daughters of Isabella, Mrs. H. J. Hodges ; Hous- ton Teachers, Mrs. M. D. McLeod; Newman Circle, Mrs. W. S. Hunt ; Housewives League, Mrs. Sadie Timmins and Mrs. Heanly ; Ransford Chapter Eastern Star, Mrs. B. M. Kuminir ; Stella Christian Sunshine Society, Mrs. C. R. Davis ; Current Literature, Mrs. H. D. Moore; War Mothers, Mrs. J. A. Mc- Clellan ; University Club, Mrs. H. A. Kipp ; Women's Relief Corps, Mrs. G. J. Hopper; Harris County Equal Suffrage, Mrs. G. A. Young; Houston Suffrage, Mrs. W. N. Grains; State Chairman Recreational Canteen, Mrs. W. B. Sharp ; Federation of Women's Clubs, Mrs. H. F. Ring; Publicity Committee, Mrs. A. C. Ford, also Mrs. R. R. Dancy ; Entertainment Committee, Mrs. W. M. Saunders ; Hostess Recreational Canteen, Mrs. Eugene Blake ; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Aline M. Dea- gan.
Office staff of the Local War Camp Community Service : C. W. Wedge, executive secretary; J. W. Beard, associate secre- tary; Mr. J. C. Fenn, employment secretary; Miss Constance Higgins, bookkeeper ; Miss Ruth Springfield, stenographer ; Mr. J. C. Miller, night and holiday information worker ; V. E. Daniel, colored assistant, and Cornelia McDowell, colored girls' worker.
Mr. J. H. Snook
Manager War Camp Community
Service
Mrs. Eugene Blake Chairman of Entertainment
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MR. A. S. CLEVELAND
Mr. Cleveland, chairman of executive committee of the War Camp Community Service, is one of Houston's most esteemed and patriotic citizens. He not only gave unstintingly of his servicv^. to the \\'ar Camp Community Service, but helped con- stantly with all other war activities. He was a Director of Red- Cross and chairman of the Red Cross Home Service Department. ^Ir. Cleveland is a trustee of the city schools and secretary of School P)oard. He has l)een a prominent citizen always, prominent in church work, in civic work and in social cir- cles. He is always pleasant to work with, courteous and considerate of his co-work-
erse. He is a son of Wm. D. Cleveland and onr o\ the hrm of Wm. D. Cleveland & Sons.
•^t(?
Red Cross or War Camp.
— which is the best? Red Cross and War Camp?
— both stood the test.
It is a remarkable fact that our l)ii,^ nu-n were not satished to work with one organization — they wanted to help all. Pa- triotism is a wonderful thing, it levels all barriers and instills a World-love into the hearts of men that nothing else can.
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MISS FLORENCE M. STERLING Treasurer War Camp Community Service of Houston
Miss Sterling is one of the women of Houston who is deserving of very special mention. But she has in- sisted that we state only the facts briefly. But we are con- strained to say that few wo- men have achieved the high standard of efficiency in the business world that has been attained by Miss Sterling. She is secretary of the Hum- ble Oil & Refining Co., and is secretary and treasurer of the Sterling Investment Co. Her executive ability has been recognized not only in the business world, but by the general public of Hous- ton. Yet with all her busi- ness activities she finds time to assist freely with both money and personal service in every worthy enterprise for civic and moral advancement. Her judgment is good and her counsel and advice much sought after. In all of the recent war activities she was assigned a prominent part. She served on the executive boards of the lo- cal chapter of the American Red Cross and War Camp Com- munity Service. She is the permanent secretary of the Expo- sition Board of Houston, and a member of the Advisory Com- mittee of the City Board of Education. She is active in church, Sunday School and Y. W. C. A. work, and has taken part in a great deal of charitable work that has never been made public. She is the daughter of Captain B. F. Sterling and her moth- er's maiden name was Mary J. Bryan.
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Clubs and Organizations
THE HOUSEWIVES' LEAGUE
In the world of economics we know that we are not upon a solid basis when we deal with individuals. This fundamen- tal economic law inspired organization among producers, man- ufacturers and the trade. But the consumer was slow to rec- ognize the need and for years remained the individual buyer. Some seven or eight years ago, when we began to feel the pressure of the price of foodstuffs, woman awoke to the de- fenseless place she held, also to the slipshod way in which as a whole she conducted the great business of being the ad- ministrator for 90 per cent of the funds of which the husband was the producer.
Following this awakening there was launched in New York City a Housewives' League which rapidly spread into a nation- al organization soon enrolling over 800,000 members. Mrs. Julian Heath was its first and is still its president.
The Houston branch came into being as a permanent or- ganization October 7, 1914. The women were called together en masse by Mrs. H. B. Fall, who was the president of the Texas Federation of Women's Clubs. As suggested above the ])urpose was to make better housewives of our women by showing them the necessity of giving their best attention to their homes ; to lead them to feel that housework is not de- grading ; that she must look upon her place in the home as purchasing agent, in a businesslike way, and know how to get 100 cents worth for her dollar. The daily papers gave hearty support to the movement, the Houston Post setting aside a. space to make public its activities. In no small way did this contribute to the League's success.
Mrs. J. Edw. Hodges was made its first president. A board of directors was the controlling body and an advisory board was also chosen. The city was divided into districts and many auxiliary bodies formed, as in this way the particular needs of any neighborhood could be better considered. Soon some 1500 liousewives enrolled. Junior societies were also formed whose purpose was to lead the girls to an interest in domestic science and teach them to insist upon clean candy, clean ice cream and the like.
The League met with much success from the start, though not without perseverance and labor. Many prices were regu- lated, especially was meat reduced. The policy was not to boy- cott any, but rather to throw patronage to the tradesman making fair profit and conducting his business in a clean es-
106 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
tablishment. It was the desire of the League at all times not to be an antagonistic body, but rather to seek co-operation from the dealers, many of whom from time to time appeared at the meetings and gave technical talks on the handling of different commodities in which the housewife is interested. Some whose standard met the requirements in sanitation and price became sustaining members and displayed the League symbol at their places of business. The housewife on her part was urged to eliminate those careless practices which tend to raise the retail price, such as too frequent deliveries, buying in too small quantities and slowness in paying accounts. In fact, "Pay Cash and Take a Bundle Home" became the slogan of the organization. They were also urged to refrain from handling food on display for sale. The use of young veal was discouraged as tending to cut off the future beef supply. It also sells for a high price and lacks in nutritive value.
Dairies and bakeries were thoroughly inspected and many "clean ups" followed, as was also the case in other varieties of food producing and food dispensing places. Penny change, which before the advent of the Housewives' League was al- most unknown in Houston, became quite generally adopted through its agitation for the same. The late Mrs. Darwin, who was then one of the State food inspectors, rendered untold aid by making frequent visits, organizing and instructing vis- iting committees in sanitation work. Score cards were urged for the dairies and their standings shown on a large bulletin board conducted by the League. During the last of Mrs. Hodges' administration, her time being absorbed by the Texas Woman's Fair, Mrs. J. A. Hautier, who had been quite active from the start, very ably acted as president.
Mrs. Bedford F. Coop was chosen the second president and followed up the general lines of activity which had already been established. During her administration a downtown of- fice and headquarters was established on the fourth floor of the Kress Building. This supplied a bureau of information on many matters in which housewives became interested and in- quiring. Magazines pertaining to good housekeeping were furnished for the public ; from it also the work of organizing women in other cities was pushed. Mrs. Coop was appointed State chairman for Texas by the National Body, which place she still holds. At this time meetings were held twice a month, the first for general business and discussions, the sec- ond for demonstration purposes.
Mrs. E. A. Calvin was elected the third president. The war coming on, new activities were demanded of the workers. Headquarters were moved to the ground floor of the Stewart
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 107
Building, where the work of food conservation and preser- vation could be extensively done. Two steam pressure can- ners were installed and the housewives free of charge could can their supplies of vegetables and fruits and help in the great cause of food conservation, which was such a crying need at this time. A competent operator was in charge of this work, who both directed and assisted in the canning and hundreds of cans were added to the city's food closets. This place was open for operation two days each week and in rush seasons oftener. The League for several months financed the demon- strations which were conducted in the city's domestic science schools under the direction of ]\Iiss Lou Stallman, who was located in the city in the employment of the Food Administra- tion. This work was to guide in the use of substitute foods which was so stressed during the war. Sixteen of these cen- ters were in operation.
\\'hile this work was progressing to aid in the national and patriotic movement of food conservation, on the third floor of the same building an equally busy work shop was in oper- ation. Here rooms were fitted up for the making of surgical dressings and garments under the direction of the Red Cross. Mrs. Sidney Huston, as first chairman of this department, serv- ing three months. Mrs. Ida Fromm succeeded Mrs. Huston, serving eight months. Here twice a week were gathered many members and thousands of surgical dressings were turned out.
The League also took its regular days as hostess to the sol- dier boys at the canteen, conducted by the City Federation, and in cacli and every drive that was made for the various war funds it had its committees on hand to help, as well as to make substantial donations as a body in all the various bene- fits the war called forth. A member of the League was chosen by the Food Administration to represent the consumer in the deli])erations of the Houston Price Interpreting Committee, and faithfully served in that capacity during the war period.
Mrs. George Timmins l)C'canu' its fourth ])rcsident and ably carried on the war work that liad been hc^un in tlu' adminis- tration preceding her.
It has been the amijition of the League, whenever a Wo- man's Building be erected for the use of the faithful workers of Houston in their various lines of interest and activities, to be able to equip and operate a model kitchen in its most com- prehensive sense. Toward this end a neat little nest egg had been gradually laid away, each administration having made a substantial addition to the same. This entire amount was invested in Liberty Bonds.
Mrs. Timmins, finding it impossible to continue the w(jrk,
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CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
was succeeded by Mrs. M. J. Heaney, first vice-president, who is filling the unexpired term. Since her assuming charge, a vigorous campaign has been started to regulate some existing prices, which apparently savor of profiteering. Success is meeting the efi^ort.
Since the first year of its organization it has been the policy of the League to conduct in the City Auditorium an annual Home Economics Week and Food Exhibit. Only such articles, whose sanitation and purity both production and dispensing can be vouched for are allowed exhibition space. These schools have proved very popular and instructive. During the war the one held especially taught substitutions for wheat and meat on our tables and reduction in our use of fats and sugar, the things which the United States Food Administration was ask- ing the women to do to help win the war. Twice the League has been fortunate enough to secure the services of the well known Betty Lyle Wilson of Nashville, Tenn., who stands without a peer as a culinary artist.
So diversified has been the work of the League, so many have been its able committee chairmen and workers that in compiling this brief sketch, it has been utterly impossible to enter into the personal mention of the scores who are deserv- ing of that mention. It would take pages, and suffice it to say that the good work could never have been done had not the faithful members worked conscientiously and untiringly not only for the good of the organization, but w^e trust for the good of all our homes and for our fair city of Houston.
MRS. B. K. BERING
Mrs. Bering gave Houston splen- did service for several years before the war. She is a director of Texas Woman's Fair and one of the most efficient chairmen. She is also a di- rector and secretary of Housewives' League and director and vice-presi- dent of Child's W^elfare League. Her first war work was in the Home Service Department of the Red Cross. Later she took the instruc- tor's course in surgical dressings and became one of the most dependable instructors of the organization, hav- ing charge as instructor of four auxiliaries, two night and two day classes. She was also chairman of Park Place Red Cross Auxiliary. She helped with all drives
jri- 0.'
^ 1
* ^
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
109
for raising war funds. She is now president of Child's Wel- fare League. Mrs. Bering is a war mother, her son, Ben K. Bering, served fourteen months overseas in the 36th Division, 132nd Field Artillerv.
MRS. BEDFORD F. COOP
Mrs. Bedford F. Coop is a native of Illinois, having made her home in Houston since 1914. Since coming here she has taken an active inter- est in the civic affairs in which the women have participated, having been an officer in the City Federa- tion as well as in several local clubs.
Mrs. Coop is at present State Chairman of the Housewives League and as such has been instrumental in organizing a number of strong leagues in the State. She has also served as president of the Houston League and is at present one of its directors and treasurer.
During the war jjeriod she was named by Mr. Hoover as one of the speakers in the work of Food Conservation and made many talks in behalf of the same. She was appointed to represent the consumers in the deliberations of the Price In- terpreting Committee for Houston. In Red Cross work, aftcr completing the instructor's course, she supervised the work at the Temple Auxiliary as well as heljiing in other units. She is an active worker in the Heights Woman's Club, being affi- liated with both the Literary and the .\rts and Crafts dejiart- ment. vShe is also a director on the Social vScrvice F>oard.
Mrs. Ida Fromm
Mrs. Ida Fromm was chairman of ])rol)abl}' more commit- tees than any other war worker. She lielped with everything; was chairman of a Red Cross auxiliary, took a chairmanship in the name of the Civic Club at each Red Cross membcrshi]) drive and each Liberty P.ond drive, sold Thrift Stamps, heli)ed with drives for relief of United War Workers, Armenians, Czecho-Slovaks. Jewish Relief, in fact, nothing escaped her. She assisted Mrs. W. W. Baines with the L. B. A. entertaining at Enlisted Men's Home, making the coffee and helping to serve it every Saturday for eight months. She assisted at all the home coming banquets given the l)o}s. She always served
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CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
on the cake committees and provided during the year over 800 cakes. She helped with the parades and the picnics. She is a war mother and a director of Housewives' League and Texas Woman's Fair,
MRS. E. A. CALVIN
Mrs. Calvin was president of the Housewives' League during the early part of the war period, and was one of the League's most efficient and earnest war workers. She and Mrs. Sidney Huston, the vice-presi- dent, organized the League's Red Cross Auxiliary, and Mrs. Calvin also inaugurated the kitchen demon- strations where all kinds of food substitutes were cooked. The kitchen was always filled with women anxi- ous to hear what to cook and how to cook it. Miss Lue Stallman, from the Food Administration office, came to lecture and assist with the dem- onstrations. Hundreds of cans of
vegetables and fruit were also "put up" in this kitchen. Mrs. Ilfrey and Mrs. A. T. Waycott were in charge of this part of the work. This was one of the hardest and most efficient and necessary parts of the League's war work. Every one who had vegetables and fruit brought them to the League kitchen to can them.
Mrs. Calvin was called to Washington to join her husband who was doing Government war work, and Mrs. Heaney was elected to take charge of the work. Later on Mrs. Heaney having so much to do, being in charge of so many activities, Mrs. Geo. Timmons was elected president. Mrs. Calvin did not cease her activities, her abilities were soon discovered in Washington and she was able to help in many ways, but prob- ably the most important position she held there is chairman of the Legislative Committee of the National Woman's Cham- ber of Commerce.
Mrs. Calvin is also an authoress, often writes short stories and news articles for magazines and papers.
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111
MRS. M. J. HEANEY.
As a war worker, Mrs. Hea- ney put in over two thousand hours during the duration of the war as chairman of the North Side branch of the Red Cross Chapter ; they registered 212 members, all North Side women ; they made over 800 garments and 32,000 surgical dressings ; also assisted in both Red Cross membership cam- paigns and canteen work.
Mrs. Heaney's progressive, public and civic work com- menced in 1910-1911 as i)resi- dent of the Lamar School Mothers Club.
As president of the North Side Civic Club, 1912-1913. she was responsible for the chang- ing of the Fifth Ward to North Side, which was a big uplift for that part of town. As the organization was active durmg tlii^ time Mrs. Heanev put over one of the greatest clean-up cam- paigns that was ever inaugurated in Houston. Slie also served two vears on the Executive Board of the "City Beautiful League," under the Chamber of Commerce.
Mrs. Heanev is president of the Housewives League, a char- ter member of this organization, and has served on the Board of Directors ever since the League organized.
She was Acting Chairman of the Housewives League during the war period. The regular League work was dispensed with and war activities, under her leadership, taken up. such as canning demonstration, canteen, Red Cross and Cooking School.
Mrs Heaney is a member of the Government Fair Price Committee, under Mr. E. A. Peden, State Food Fair Price Chairman.
She is also a director of the Texas Women's Fair, is a char- ter member and has served on the board since it was organized, and one of the leaders of the Fair now.
Mrs. Heaney is a member of the Board of Directors of the Social Service^ organization, under the City Department, and has served three years.
112
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
With all her civic, progressive and public work she finds time to do much church work, and is at present Secretary of the Holy Name Altar Society, and a chairman and leader in her church.
Last, but not least, Mrs. Heaney is a housewife; manages her own home affairs on a budget and has kept a dairy since her marriage in 1895, and can account for every cent since 1895 to the present day.
She and Mr. Heaney are blessed with one child — Harry J. Heaney, a civil engineer at Omaha, Neb. Mrs. Heaney says Harry is a chip off the old block, his "Mother of Mine" as he calls her. "Keep up the good work," Harry says.
MRS. A. J. WAYCOTT
Mrs. Waycott is a director of the Housewives' League and has been one of its most prominent and effi- cient workers since its organization. She has served as purchasing agent and canning demonstrator. She taught hundreds of women to can vegetables and fruit during the war. She also helped with the canteen, making many cakes for the men. Mrs. Waycott was vice-president of the Child's Welfare League for four years. She was also a member of the Texas Woman's Fair and gave splendid service for two years. Mrs. Waycott never fails to respond cheerfully when asked to help a worthy cause.
MRS. W. M. BAINES By Katie Daffan
It is frequently those who are engaged in many useful pur- suits and who have the greatest demands made upon their time and energies, who seem to be able to accept new respon- sibilities and new duties, thereby accomplishing yet greater service.
It was Mrs. Baines who conceived the idea of compiling and publishing a history concerning "Houston's Part in the World War." To her foresight, and to her desire to perpetuate the noble work of the "War Mothers" and Red Cross are due this volume.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 113
This volume possesses unique value toda}-, but as the years pass, its value will increase, and it will become a record and a reference for those who will feel a just pride in the well-sys- tematized work which Houston sustained in the world war.
May Harper Baines, wife of William ^Nlollineaux Baines, and daughter of Rev. J. K. Harper, was born at Oak Island, near San Antonio, Tex., June 11, 1862. Her father, her grandfather and two uncles were clergymen, and her maternal grandfather, Thomas Devers, was one of the early settlers of Texas, for whom the town of Devers is named. Her mother, Nannie Desmuke, was the daughter of Dr. A. W. Desmuke, for manv years a successful physician of San Antonio. At an early age May Harper began Sunday School work in the Methodist Sunday School, she organized and established several Sundav Schools, and, through the busy years of her life, she has con- sistently kept up her interest in this important and inspiring department of church work.
In 1881 she was married to ^^'illiam IMollineaux Baines, who was born July 23, 1846. at Preston, England, and ten children have blessed this marriage : Graham Clifton. William Harper, Raymond Gifford, Nannie Almira, Mason Allen, Laura Dell, Edith May, Winnie Viola, Ivy Lloyd and Alfred Gordon Lyle. Mr. Baines, Raymond, \\'innie and Lloyd have passed from their earthly to a heavenly home, while four of her children are married. William Harper, who married Miss Alberta Wil- liams, has four children. Alberta Mae, \\'esley Harper, Hor- ace Marvin and IMelvin Lee. Nannie Almira, who married E. B. Davis, has three children. Edith May, Edward Elton and Clyde. Mason Allen, who married Miss ]\Iamie Ethel Williams, has three children, Mamie Evylin, Lois Ruth and Mason Allen, Jr. Laura Dell married J. I. McFrancis.
During the twenty-seven years she has resided in Houston Mrs. Baines has been closely affiliated with the activities of the Methodist churches, having for five years labored with the Washington Street Methodist Church, and for twenty-two years she has given her support and earnest work to the Mc- Ashan Church. During eight years she served the McAshan Home Mission Society as president.
Mrs. Baines' club activities in the City of Houston began with the Second Ward Division of the Houston Civics Club, of which she was a charter member. During the 18 years of her membership, she has endeavored to establish a high stand- ard of civic conditions in her ward. At the close of the nine years of her presidency of this organization she was made Honorary President, and presented with a silver loving cup, as a testimonial of the appreciation in which her leadership
114 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
was held by her associates. As a director, she continues her interest in this club's progress and welfare.
As a director of the Housewives' League, of which she is also a charter member and one of the League's ward presi- dents, as a director and a charter member of the Texas Wo- man's Fair Association and general chairman of pageants, as chairman of the Texas Woman's Fair Red Cross Auxiliary, as vice-president of the Houston Pen Women and treasurer of Houston Federation of Women's Clubs, Mrs. Baines holds a record of genuine good accomplished.
As an author of stories, of verse and of biography, Mrs. Baines gives evidence of undoubted literary ability, and, had her activities been directed solely to literature, she would have given to the world many excellent literary productions. Her "Heroes of Martinique" gives, in charming style, the habits, customs and weird, fascinating characteristics, as well as much of the history of famed and fated Martinique.
Though her church, her club, and her social relations are many, and the demands which they place upon her unswerv- ingly met, Mrs. Baines has always been a devoted wife and mother, giving her first care and consideration to the loved ones in her home, from whom she receives her greatest bless- ing and inspiration.
As the City of Houston reaches a higher and still higher development in Christian education, in civic virtue, and in substantial progress, the noble women who have labored for all of these will be gratefully remembered. Mrs. Baines takes her place with those women who have contributed most to the well-being, and the going forward of this city, sparing not herself, but giving freely of her rich gifts of mind and heart, to the general weal and happiness. Those fortunate enough to come within her circle feel the warmth and the strength of her broad sympathy, her cheerfulness and her kindness.
See Red Cross Section for Mrs. Baines' war activities.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS CIVIC CLUB
115
Mrs. James A. Thompson Mrs. W. M. Baines Mrs. Ida Fromm
Past President Past President President
Now Honary President
Mrs. E. N. Mills Mrs. J. G. Decker
Past Treasurer Past Treasurer
Mrs. H. Heinze
Vice President and Past Treasurer
Mrs. A. R. Myers Mrs. E. G. Burke
Treasurer Secretary
116 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
CIVIC CLUB
Second Ward Division Civic Club was organized in 1901 by Mrs. T. R. Franklin. Mrs. Nelson Jones was elected president, Mrs. James A. Thompson secretary and Mrs. E. N. Mills, treasurer. There were 26 charter members. The patriotism of this organization always has been unbounded. Its zeal for the welfare of Houston has never diminished. It has given 18 years of organized service to the city. The first playground in Houston was established by them in Lubbock Grove. Many trees were planted by the organization and several hundred dollars in shrubbery and flower seeds have been given away by them. They have never failed to respond at any time when called to assist with patriotic work of any nature. Their chief aim was to establish a park in the east end of town where the children could get needed recreation.
Mrs. Jones served two years, when her health failed and she was compelled to leave the city. She was a wonderful woman and the club sustained a great loss. Mrs. Wm. Glass was then elected to the chair. She also served two years. Mrs. Glass was also highly efficient and of great worth to the city. She, like Mrs. Jones, was much loved by her co-workers. She died in the service. Mrs. Jones has also passed away to her eternal rest. Mrs. March Culmore was then elected president and
i Mrs. S. J. Westheimer treasurer. These ladies served two
^ years each; both gave splendid service. In 1906 Mrs. A. J.
i Thompson was elected president and Mrs. Will Reinhardt was elected to take Mrs. Thompson's place as secretary, which position she had held from the beginning. Mrs. A. G. Decker was then elected treasurer. Mrs. Thompson served two years and Mrs. Decker and Mrs. Reinhardt six years as treasurer and secretary.
When Mrs. Thompson resigned on account of her husband's health, Mrs. W. M. Baines was elected president. Mrs. Baines served successively nine years. During her regime Settegast
iPark was established. Mr. Settegast had long promised Mrs. Baines (she being for many years chairman of the park com-- mittee) that he would assist them. In 1908 Mr. Settegast do-
Inated one block of land with the understanding that the city should buy two more blocks. This was done, and Settegast Park became one of the most popular parks in the city. It has been well patronized from the first. The ladies built a beautiful bandstand and all the musicians have said many
■ times that it is the best bandstand ever erected in Houston.
In 1909 Mrs. Baines organized a Young Ladies' Auxiliary. Miss Helen Burkett served two years in this capacity. The two orgfanizations were then merged into one and Miss Bur-
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
117
kett, who had married and is now Mrs. Burke, was elected sec- retary. She still retains this office.
^Irs. Ida Fromm was elected vice-president in 1912. Mrs. F. J. Ebdon second vice-president, and Mrs. Henry Heinze was elected treasurer to fill Mrs. Decker's place, serving four years.
In 1915 Mrs. A. R. IMyers was elected treasurer and re- tains her oft'ice until the present time. Too much could not be said about these ladies. They have given of their time unsparingly. Houston owes them both a monument. \Mien Mrs. Baines resigned as president of the club she was made very happy by being made honorary president of the clul:) and presented with a silver loving cup.
In 1916 Mrs. Ida Fromm was elected president and Mrs. Henry Heinze vice-president. They still are in oft'ice. It would be impossible to say enough in praise of these women. Words are inadecjuate to toll of their many sacrifices for the good of the communitx-.
NORTH SIDE CIVIC CLUB
In the year 1900 Mrs. Thunias R.
Franklyn, who was president of the
Houston Civic Club, organized a
branch in five of the city wards.
Each branch had its special officers
and were expected to look after all
civic propositions in their limita- tions. Each of these organizations
did splendid work for several years
but all gradually ceased activities
until only two were left, the Fifth
Ward and the Second Ward Clubs.
Mrs. M. J. Heaney was the original
president of the Fifth Ward Club and some excellent work was accom- plished during her administration. Mrs. e. A. Cole. President
Under her leadershij) the entire city was aroused to the need of a clean-up campaign. The Fifth' Ward was cleaned from one end to the other and many miles of sidewalks were laid through her agitation. The other wards got busy and tried to imitate. Mrs. Heaney's clean-up campaign was talked of every- where and will always be remembered. There is nothing more patriotic than cleanliness and through cleanliness, healthful- ness. During the years Mrs. Heaney was president the Fifth Ward was changed to North Side, this was considered a social uplift for that part of the city. So the club is now called the North Side Civic Club. The old Fifth Ward Civic Club had
118 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
purchased four lots for a small park, but when the new North Side Junior High School was built they needed additional grounds for a beautiful campus, so the Civic Club donated its land with the understanding that the city buy more. This was accomplished and consequently beautiful grounds surround the school, answering the purposes of a park or playground. The Civic Club also purchased $200.00 worth of books for the North Side High School.
The club's activities during the war were under the able chairmanship of Mrs. W. E. Gilliland, assisted by other mem- bers of the club. For a short time the club was inactive but the present officers, Mrs. E. A. Cole, president, and Mrs. C. Culpepper, secretary-treasurer, have planned to take up active progressive civic work as before. The club has an auxiliary which is known as the North Side Social Club, its object being social uplift. Mrs. Heaney is president of this club with Mrs. O. E. Staley secretary, and Mrs. E. Gerraice treasurer.
MISS LUE STALLMAN
Miss Stallman was sent to Houston by the United States Department of Agriculture and in addition received an ap- pointment to the Food Administration. As a result of her work the greatest number of actual cans of food values put up in any city in the United States were on the shelves in Houston homes and had been canned by the housewives of Houston. Back yard gardens furnished the food to be canned, gardens which had formerly been mainly for the chickens and of little or no value to the housewife. Between 15,000 and 20,000 cans was the total amount for the period of conserva- tion and this was the highest reported to the department even by the cities having community canneries.
Eight kitchens were in operation in various parts of the city where the women went with their beans and various garden products and received help in canning them for future use. Miss Stallman gave a course to the women of each community who were interested in the work and to these women were given United States Department of Agriculture war service certificates authorizing them to give instructions in their own communities. These women took turns in instructing at the kitchens which were open every day.
Miss Stallman was always careful, when teaching the use of war substitutes, to impress on the ladies that they should be careful at all times to think seriously on the subject of food values and only foods that were wholesome and nutritious were ever considered for a moment in her menus. Her serv- ices were much appreciated by the Housewives' League.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 119
COLONIAL DAMES
The National Society of Colonial Dames of America is com- posed entirely of women who claim direct descent from some ancestor who lived in any one of the Thirteen American Col- onies prior to 1750, who rendered service to his country during the Colonial period, as an officer in the g-overnment, in the army or the church, or who by any distinguished service enabled the colonies to declare their independence in 1776.
The Preamble to the National Constitution of the society reads as follows :
"Whereas, History shows that the remembrance of a na- tion's glory in the past stimulates to national greatness in the future, and that successive generations are awakened to a truer patriotism, and aroused to noble endeavor by the con- templation of the heroic deeds of their forefathers ; therefore, the Society of Colonial Dames of America has been formed that the descendants of those men, who in the colonial period, by their rectitude, courage and self-denial, prepared the way for success in that struggle, which gained for the country its liberty and constitution, may associate themselves together to do honor to the virtues of their forefathers and to encourage in all who come under their influence true patriotism, built on a knowledge of the self-sacrifice and heroism of those men of the colonies, who laid the foundation of this great nation."
There are in the City of Houston seventeen women who claim the distinction of membership in the society. Prior to our country's entrance into the great world war their interests were chiefly directed toward the things which related to the history of the colonial period; to collecting and preserving old manuscripts, traditions of the past ; to restoring old build- ings of early colonial days ; to creating an interest in history, and to endeavoring to impress upon the youth of the land a spirit of patriotism and love of country.
When America took up the cause of the Allies and we real- ized that we were facing the most gigantic struggle in the world's history, the Colonial Dames were the first women of the land to arise to the situation. They actively entered into every phase of war work which was required to win the war.
The annual State Convention met in San Antonio in May, 1917. Those present decided that the Texas Society should fully co-operate in every way in war work with that which the National Society assumed.
Upon the request of the Surgeon General of the Navy, the equipment of operating rooms on the naval hospital ships, the "Mercy" and the "Comfort," was undertaken. To this
120 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
fund of $50,000.00 the Colonial Dames of Houston sent its first donation. It is with a degree of pride that they realize a share in this magnificent work. Collier's Weekly and the Scientific American have both described these two ships, with their oper- ating rooms, bearing handsome plates with the inscription : "This Room Was Equipped by the National Society of Colonial Dames of America."
The work which perhaps was taken up with the greatest interest and zeal was knitting for the boys of the navy. This was also done under the direction of the Navy League. The Battleship Texas was selected as the favored protege, and during the year and a half of real war more than six hundred knitted articles were sent to these sailor boys, each article marked "From the Colonial Dames of Houston, Texas." In addition to these several complete sets, consisting of sweater, helmet, scarf and mittens, were sent as individual gifts to Houston boys on the "Texas" and other ships.
As late as March of the present year the society responded to calls from the Navy League, sending more than two hun- dred articles. After the signing of the armistice, many war workers considered their labors finished, but those of us who realized that the sailors' duties went on until the last Amer- ican soldier was home from over the sea, continued to ply the knitting needle.
This splendid record made by the Houston Dames is due to the untiring efforts of Mrs. Jeff N. Miller, who served as chair- man of the work. Her energy and enthusiasm never wavered, and those who would grow negligent were aroused to a full sense of their duty by her assistance and encouragement. Mrs. Miller bears the distinction of being one of the vice-presidents of the State, and was at the beginning of the war work presi- dent of the Houston Society.
All funds required for purchasing wool were raised by the individual efforts of the members, and during the entire war period the society responded to many patriotic calls requiring much time, energy and money.
In the winter of 1917, when the urgent need for woolen gar- ments at Camp Bowie was made known, the society donated a number of sweaters and seventy-five ($75.00) dollars in cash to the fund raised in Houston with which to purchase these necessary supplies. It is worthy of mention that it was a Colonial Dame, Mrs. John W. Parker, who issued the call for a meeting of citizens that Sunday afternoon at the home of Miss Harriet Levy to discuss ways and means of relieving the distressing situation, which was causing not only suffering
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 121
but serious illness and many deaths at the camp. This call resulted in an unprecedented outpouring of money from every part of the city. By Monday night more than $3000.00 had been spent for sweaters. The Houston merchants supplied them at cost. The garments were packed by a committee of ladies and left on that night's train for Fort Worth, in charge of a man who happened to be the husband of a Colonial Dame, and with such dispatch did he work that by Tuesday afternoon every Houston soldier at Camp Bowie, ^^■ho was in need of a sweater, had been supplied.
During the progress of war work, the society furnished committees for the sale of Liberty Bonds. In the month of December, 1918, a committee selling War Savings Stamps at the street banks reported $1075.00 from the sales. A com- mittee served in the United \\'ar Work Drive, with $1440.00 collected. To this the society gave $25.00. They served in the Red Cross Membership Drive, the society entering as a 100 per cent club.
Ten dollars was contributed to the Armenian Relief fund ; $10.00 to Jewish Relief and $10.00 to an educational fund of the D. A. R., and $10.00 to the recent Salvation Army drive.
A little French orphan is supported In' the society. A gen- erous gift goes to her at each birthday and Christmas, and several interesting letters have been received from the little girl expressing her appreciation, and telling something of her life.
The next work of the National Society of Colonial Dames will be the building of the PMymouth Rock Memorial in 1920, commemorating the Three Ilundredth Anniversary of Ply- mouth Colony. A prominent part has been allotted to the Dames in the celebration at Plymouth. There are many mem- bers in our State whose ancestors' names appear among the list of Pilgrims arriving on the Mayflower.
Five sons of Houston Colonial Dames entered the service of their country upon the declaration of war against (jcrmany. Coming as they do from a proud lineage which dates from Plymouth Rock to Faneuil Hall, and imbued with the same spirit which caused their ancestors to rebel against the ty- ranny of a German prince upon the throne of England, these young boys offered their lives for the preservation of their country's freedom and her honor.
Dr. Fred Lummis, Robert W. Knox, Jr., and Russell I". Wolters wear the two gold service stripes of the A. R. F. PToward F. vSmith and Wharton Weems wear with e(|ual honor the silver.
122 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
These things which have been mentioned were done as strictly Colonial Dames work, but as individual workers each and every member took prominent places, actively engaging in every form of work at Red Cross headquarters, sewing, knitting, surgical dressings and in every department. They served as canteen workers and at hostess' houses ; contributed to various forms of work and entertainment at Camp Logan and Ellington Field, and in fact, the Colonial Dame spirit was everywhere, helping to win the war.
The National President had this to say in her annual report at Washington, May 21, 1919:
"I am proud of the National Society, Colonial Dames of America ; proud of every State society which composes the federation, and proud of every individual member who has shown her courage and her patriotism during our year and a half of war. Perhaps the most valuable contribution that you as a society made to the war work of women was the spirit of co-operation which characterized you ; the willingness to work with others and through other channels. The absence of self-assertion in the service you rendered."
Members of the Colonial Dames Society of Houston : Mes- dames Jeff N. Miller, John W. Parker, B. F. Weems, John A. McClellan, T. Arthur Cargill, Sam L. Green, Wells Thompson, T. T. Player, P. R. Cruse, Howard F. Smith, Chas. K. Dunlap, H. H. Lummis, Robt. W. Knox, W. S. Hunt, J. C. Hutcheson, W. C. Crane, Jacob F. Wolters, Mrs. John W. Parker, presi- dent; Mrs. Jacob F. Wolters, secretary-treasurer.
DAUGHTERS OF AMERICAN REVOLUTION
The John McKnitt Alexander Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, laid aside its regular course of study during the war and its fifty-five members became actively en- gaged in war work.
Mrs. John T. Garrison, the loved and efficient regent, as- sisted by Mrs. Jacob Wolters, vice-regent; Mrs. Jesse An- drews, second vice-regent; Mrs. Gus Street, secretary; Mrs. Herbert May, recording secretary; Mrs. Inez Carter, treas- urer; Mrs. J. W. Parker, Mrs. R. W. Knox, and many other ladies of the chapter, worked diligently, giving practically their entire time to the work of getting our soldiers comfortably cared for and making money to meet the many demands necessary to carry on the work successfully.
In spite of adverse weather conditions and the great amount of sickness last winter, Mrs. J. T. Garrison, assisted by a
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 123
committee of ladies, conducted a rmnmage sale that in itself netted almost enough to cover the heavy indebtedness the chapter incurred in buying yarn for knitting, Christmas boxes for the soldiers, furniture for the recreational canteen, War Savings Stamps, Liberty Bonds and numerous other patriotic endeavors. Although Mrs. Garrison had no son to give her home was always open to all the soldier boys, and her hands never idle.
Mrs. Jacob Wolters and Mrs. R. W. Knox were successful in getting the yarn and having sweaters, helmets and socks knitted for the soldiers and sailors.
Through the efforts of Mrs. J. W. Parker twenty French orphans were adopted by friends outside the chapter and seven taken through the chapter. Mrs. Parker is one of the charter members of John ]\IcKnitt Alexander Chapter and one of its most faithful and beloved members.
During the last several months ladies of the chapter visited the convalescent ward in the base hospital at Camp Logan on specially appointed afternoons and entertained the soldiers with musical programs and recitations.
Mrs. Jesse Andrews was instrumental in securing a Rice Institute scholarship fund the past two years, and is working this year to get $5000.00 to insure a permanent scholarship for Rice Institute.
A committee of ladies from the chapter completely fur- nished a room at the Lutheran Brotherhood home for soldiers passing through the city, buying furniture throughout, and twenty-five beds. The chapter worked as a unit in the Red Cross and in every way and it feels that it did more good than in all its previous endeavors.
THE SETTLEMENT HOUSE
The Settlement Association, which for al)OUt ten years was a powerful force for good in our midst, and whose work, now taken over by the city, continues in enlarged degree in many of the activities maintained by the Social Service Bureau, had a most modest beginning. A sewing class made up of little girls selected from the pupils of Rusk School, was the first step. To Miss Sibyl Campbell, for many years a teacher in the Rusk School, and to whom the needs of the neighborhood of- fered a glorious opportunity for service, belongs the honor of starting the movement. It was she who got the class together, secured several volunteer teachers, and enlisted the interest of a few generous friends who contributed funds to buy materials for the diminutive seamstresses.
124 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Small though the beginning, Miss Campbell's vision was broad and far-reaching in scope, and it was not long until she laid the needs and possibilities of the neighborhood before some of her friends on whose sympathy and help she knew she could rely. Among the first women to whom she appealed was Mrs. Jas. A. Baker, and from that time on Mrs.' Baker was the inspiration and guiding spirit of the work that was to grow and spread in so many directions.
On February 19, 1907, an organization was effected at Mrs. Baker's home and the following ofificers and directors elected: President, Mrs. Jas. A. Baker; Vice-President, Mrs. J. L. Thompson ; Treasurer, Mrs. Frank Andrews ; Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. J. Allen Kyle ; Recording Secretary, Mrs. D.
C. Glenn; Directors, Mesdames W. H. Leavell, W. B. Sharp, L. B. Menefee, Joseph Goldman, O. T. Holt and Miss Sibyl Campbell.
The Association was first known as the Houston Kinder- garten and Industrial Association. This was in deference to the Woman's Club which had maintained a free kindergarten in the neighborhood for some years, and which it most gener- ously turned over to the new organization, as soon as it be- came active. Their gift not only included the work and equip- ment of the free kindergarten, but the building itself, which for some time housed all activities undertaken. This kinder- garten was the nucleus around which the neighborhood work grew. As new phases of work were started, and the settle- ment idea began to develop, the name was changed to the Houston Settlement Association, and the home set up as a community center and maintained to this day, is simply known as the Settlement House.
Besides the sewing classes and the free kindergarten, among the activities that have been inaugurated and fostered are cooking classes, social and athletic clubs among both boys and girls, a story hour, circulating library, supervised playground, a day nursery, baby camp, visit nursing and free clinics. It is an all-round social center, co-operating with the neighbors, the schools, the physicians of our city, the hospitals, the health department, the juvenile court and every other agency and movement that looks to the betterment of the community.
During the many years of its existence Mrs. Baker was the only president the Settlement Association ever had, and Mrs.
D. C. Glenn was recording secretary throughout its life. Mes- dames J. L. Thompson, H. R. Aiken, John McClellan, Frank Andrews, A. W. Standing, Howard Smith and W. S. Parish have been vice-presidents, Mrs. Thompson practically ever since the organization. Mrs. Thompson at one time served as
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 125
treasurer, as have Mrs. J. E. Crews, Mrs. Frank x\ndrews and Mrs. R. T. Morris. Mesdames Kyle, J. B. Mayberry and P. B. Timpson have successfully served as corresponding secretary.
In addition to the original board of directors, and the offi- cers already named, these ladies have served as directors : Mesdames J. W. Hicks, Thornwell Fay, J. A. Radford, E. O. Lovett, Max Taub, Jos. Mullen, J. G. Gerson, J. O. Ross, S. F. Carter, Turner \\'illiamson, Walter \\^alne, J. W. Hertford, James Cravens, J. W. Lockett, John T. Scott, J. J. Carroll, T. A. Cargill, David Rice.
As time has gone on, and Houston developed, one by one the several phases of the work that have been tried out and firmly established, have been turned over to the city, until in 1916, when the Houston Foundation took definite shape, the Houston Settlement Association was one of the organizations to merge itself in the Social Service Bureau, which is one of the strong working arms of the Foundation.
Of the old Settlement board members, the following ladies are directors of the Social Service Bureau : Mesdames Baker, Cargill, Carroll, Farish, Goldman, Lockett, Lovett. Morris, Rice, Smith, Thompson, Timpson, W'alne.
THE GEO. B. McCLELLAN WOMEN'S RELIEF CORPS No. 16, Auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic
Was organized at Houston, Texas. July 6, 1895, by Mes- dames Jennie I. Rue and Maggie A. Rust and is the oldest woman's patriotic order in the city.
We were the first organization to offer flags for public schools, community and municipal buildings. But until the founding of the first Newsboys' Association at the Shearn Methodist Sunday School rooms (corner Texas and Milam Streets) these offers were not accepted. At that time we had the honor to present the American Newsboys' Association their first flag, thus exemplifying the aims of our order to pro- mulgate love of the flag and })atriotism in the community in which we live. During the Spanish-American war we as- sisted in various patriotic demonstrations.
In the days that followed the terrible hurricane which struck Galveston on September 8, 1900, the Women's Relief Corps, under the efficient leadership of Mrs. Annette Van Horn, es- tablished headquarters for the distribution of funds, supplies and clothing contributed by the various branches of this order over the United States. After the storm of 1909 at Texas City we contributed liberally to the relief of the needy ones. We
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WOMEN'S RELIEF CORPS
Mrs. Sophie Hooper War President
Mrs. Annette Van Horn Mrs. Lucy Nicholson Charter Member Life Member
Mrs. Francillia King Civil War Nurse
Mrs. Jennie I. Rue W. R. C. Organizer
Mrs. Maggie Rust W. R. C. Organizer
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gave of our time and funds to alleviate the sufferings of the 1915 storm victims.
April 6, 1917. the day that the United States declared war on Germany, we oft'ered our services to the Government, going on record as the first woman's organization in the city to do so.
During the entire period of the war we met unflinchingly every condition required by the Government.
One beloved son. ^^'illiam Trumbo, made the supreme sacri- fice, thus adding a gold star mother (Isabell Trumbo McLa- ren) to our membership. The military funeral of this young patriot being the first held in this city as a result of this war.
The following sons were offered on the altar of patriotism : William H. H. Trumbo, Roy E. Warren, Wm. Jay Treat, Frank J. Hopper, Whitelaw Diltz,' Donnell Diltz. Tohn A. Clark, [ohn R. Toole, W. W. Toole, Henry Otto. Alfred Otto, besides nu- merous other relatives of the members.
\\^hen the ill-fated Tuscania was torpedoed off the shores of Scotland and many bodies of our beloved dead washed ashore at Isley Isle, the noble women of this little island sat up all night making an American flag with which to cover the remains of our heroes at the sunrise burial. On reading of this beautiful courtesy, we the women of the Relief Corps, de- cided to send them a beautiful hand-made silken flag and a let- ter expressing our grateful appreciation.
We were active in the maintenance of the canteen for en- listed men. We served in regular order from the second night of its opening until the close of the war made its continu- ance unnecessary, dcsj)itc the shortage of sugar and flour.
A Red Cross unit was formed, many garments made and much material donated. The members gave their time freely to Headquarters, toward the raising of funds for Red Cross work, Lil)erty Bonds. War Savings Stamps and the purchasing of Red Cross memberships for overseas soldiers and other war- time activities we contributed our full share.
Through the medium of the "Stars and Stripes," tlie official organ of the A. E. F., we adopted a Frencn war orphan, send- ing the sum of $86.72 yearly towards the care and education of this unfortunate little one. Aside from this our members sent individual gifts. The future care and education of our little ward is to be the privilege of the Woman's Relief Corps.
When the World War Veterans formed the association known as the "American Legion" we offered them our assist- ance and support and provided a large flag for the local lodge to be presented at an early date.
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The sacred privilege of this order is to honor and uphold the flag and defend the principles for which it stands.
"The Union of lakes and the Union of lands,
The Union of States none can sever, The Union of hearts and the Union of hands.
And the Flag of our Union forever."
We have participated in all public patriotic demonstrations when requested or permitted. Held various entertainments for the veterans and their families, assisted in every civic duty assigned us, contributed toward the establishment of a munic- ipal hospital, Salvation Army, Rescue Home and other phil- anthropic enterprises.
We are banded together for the special purpose of caring for the Union Veterans and their dependant ones, finding homes and employment for their widows and orphans and aid- ing and comforting them in sickness and death and instilling patriotism into the hearts of the rising generation. Ever striv- ing toward the fulfillment of our own beautiful motto : Fra- ternity, Charity and Loyalty. And although most of those who chartered our little craft in the beginning have crossed the narrow sea to the shores of sweet deliverance, a few of the old guard are left and these with the hallowing influence of our beloved lifetime chaplain, Mrs. Lucy Nicholson, who is almost 87 years young, and our two Civil War nurses, Mrs. Francilla King" and Mrs. Kate Rebuck.
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COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN IN HOUSTON WAR
WORK
The Council of Jewish \\'omen is a national organization founded in 1893 to band together Jewish women to further the highest interest of humanity along lines religious, philan- thropic and educational. The Houston section was not formed until February, 1913, and so had only completed its fourth year when we entered the war.
Our first patriotic step was to form a Red Cross Auxiliary of which Mrs. Jos. Goldman was chairman during the twenty- two months of its activity, and ^Irs. Sol Oberdorfer instructor in surgical dressings. Different groups worked five days in the week under their leaders, meeting first in the Concordia Club and later in the Federal Building, paying for all material used. A record of our accomplishments will be given in the Red Cross report, and it will always be a gratifying remem- brance to have ranked at the head of the many local auxiliaries in the amount of work completed.
Our hospital visiting committees were the first to be regu- larl\- organized among the local groups, with Mrs. 1. G. Gerson as chairman the first six months. At this time we were work- ing under the auspices of the B'nai IVrith lodge, which later merged its activities with the Jewish Welfare P>oard. And though practically the same Council women were doing the soldier welfare work, it was now under the direction of the Jewish Welfare Board, of which Mrs. Louis Sinsheimcr was local vice-chairman and untiring in her efforts at all times.
The Council's every fourth Sunday at the Recreational Can- teen was i)erhaps the most poj^ular work it did. Mrs. Sam Kaiser held the chairmanship during the fourteen months it was o])erated, and her call for "home-made \)\es and cakes," as well as "ourselves" to serve them, was always cheerfully met.
The Coiuicil was represented in the "Pageant" given for the entertainment of the soldiers in the fall of 1917, and in every public undertaking afterwards during the period of the war. Mrs. Henry J. Dannenbaum was the Council's "Food Conser- vation" chairman ; Mrs. L. A. Freed, "War Savings Stamps" chairman ; Mrs. Oscar Lii)i:)er as Fourth Liberty Loan chair- man secured for us the $50.00 l:)ond offered as a prize to the woman's organization selling the most.
To further patriotic education Major Chiperfield. judge ad- vocate in the 33rd Division, addressed our body in December, 1917; Major Blech and Colonel Harvey in April and November following.
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Because of conditions brought about by the war, our Council contributed $200.00 in 1918 and $200.00 in 1919 to the Jewish war sufferers in Eastern Europe and Palestine.
And through a mass meeting of Jewish women called by Miss Harriet Levy in June, 1917, $2000.00 was subscribed for the same purpose.
No experience is in vain that enlarges insight and sympathy. In our united war work, we have come to know each other better, and henceforth can count on each other in work for the common good.
The officers of the Council during the period of the war were : Mrs. I. G. Gerson, president ; Miss Harriet Levy, first vice-president; Mrs. Henry Cook, second vice-president; Mrs. Rachel Levy, third vice-president; Mrs. M. L. Goldman, cor- responding secretary; Mrs. Miriam Browning, recording sec- retary; Mrs. Phil Sulzbacher, treasurer; Mrs. E. Blum, auditor, and these with the rest of the executive board, directed the various activities herein mentioned. But the fine spirit of co-operation shown by the majority of the members made possible any useful and worthy work which can be credited to the Council of Jewish Women.
"The path of a good woman is strewn with flowers, but they rise behind her footseps — not before them."
HOUSTON PEN WOMEN CLUB
The Houston Pen Women Club is now in the fourteenth year of organization, with a present membership list of not less than twenty-five active women writers of this city.
The object of organization is, first, to be of mutual assist- ance to each other, as writers and also for recreation.
The meetings are held monthly only, in the homes of the members. Applications for membership are submitted to a committee formed for this purpose.
Officers Pen Women Club : President, Mrs. M. C. Dana ; Mrs. Hal M. Peck, first vice-president; Mrs. May Harper, Baines, second vice-president; Mrs. Florence N. Dancy,. corre- sponding secretary ; Mrs. Agnes Paschal McNier, recording secretary; Mrs. Adele B. Looscan, treasurer; Mrs. M. E. Bryan, parliamentarian ; Mrs. William Christian, literary exec- utor. All Houston Pen Women did their part nobly during the World War.
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MRS. ROBERT R. DANCY War Mother and Pen Woman
Florence Nightingale Dancy (Mrs. Robert R. Dancy), Houston, Texas. Born in Georgetown, Prince Edward Island; daughter Rev. Robert T. Roche, D. D.. and Sara Barden (Pal- mer) Roche. Educated Bedlock School, Philadelphia, Pa. ; St. Amis Academy, Maryland. Married 1880 to Robert R. Dancy at Savannah, Ga. Mrs. Dancy is the mother of First Lieutenant Robert R. Dancy. Jr., a graduate of the Third Officers' Training School. Leon Springs. \\'as staff' off'icer as battalion ba3'onet in- structor, Camp Gordon, Atlanta, Ga., and at the time of the signing of the armistice was serving tem])orarily as recruiting off'icer in Tam- l)a, Florida, sent there by Major General Sharp, commanding the Southeastern Division, to pass on candidates for admission into the officers' training school at Camp Fremont. Cal. Mrs. Dancy 's other children are Herbert H. Dancy and Marie Milli- cent Dancy. Mrs. Dancy is past president of Houston i'en Women and for many years corresponding sccrctarv of Hous- ton Civic Club.
MRS. AGNES PASCHAL McNEIR
One of tlu- most interesting members of the Houston Pen Women is Mrs. .Agnes Paschal McNeil, a woman of rare intel- lectual attainments. Born of parents widely divergent, both in heredity and race, her father an illustrious French gentle- man and her mother a full-blooded Indian of high education. Salem College. N. C. l)eing known to the writer as one she at- tended and graduated from.
Mrs. Agnes Paschal xMcXeil is a rac(.ntcur of unuMi.il ability and recalls in effective language the tumultuous times in which she lived. She is a present officer in both the Pen Women's Club and the Ladies' Reading Club of this city. Though blind for many years hers is a life that brightens "the i)atlnvay for others and uses the light denied herself to contribute in greater measure to the pleasure of others.
— Florence M. Dancy.
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MRS. M. E. BRYAN
Came to Houston 35 years ago and has been a constant blessing to the city, her special friend and the stranger within her gates. She has ever been ready to respond when called to service. She is a member of Christ Church (Episcopal) and served as secretary of the Ladies' Parish Association of that church fifteen years, and is still an active member. She is an honorary member of the "Woman's Club," the "Current Lit- erary Club" and "Ladies' Reading Club," and is an active mem- ber of the "Houston Pen Women," has served as president and is now parliamentarian. She was president for two years of the City Federation of Women's Clubs. She has been an ac- tive member of the Young Women's Christian Association for many years and served as corresponding secretary for several vears. She is a member of Travelers Aid Committee of Y. W.
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C. A. She is the beloved president of the R. E. Lee Chapter L'nited Daughters of Confederacy and has served in that ca- pacity ten years. When the war broke out in Europe Mrs. Bryan was one of the first to offer her services at the Red Cross. She was called by the first members of the Houston Chapter the mother of Red Cross. She was assistant secre- tary and in charge of the work at headquarters until the work became too heavy for her, she being in poor health, but it was impossible for ]\Irs. M. E. Bryan to pay attention to self or the needs of her own body when her country called her, so as soon as America entered the war she again became active with the Red Cross and was elected executive chairman of the L^.
D. C. Red Cross Auxiliary, and was also appointed chairman of the Texas Division U. D. C. War Relief Work. This organ- ization raised funds to establish beds in the American Hospi- tal, Neuilly, France. ]\Irs. Bryan also assisted largely in the sale of Liberty Bonds and \\'ar Savings Stamps.
MRS. CHARLES R. SHAPARD
Formerly Mrs. Mary Leigon Christensen, became known as a peace advocate when she proposed the League of Nations in 1913. The proposition was endorsed by Governor Colquitt, Governor Hobby, governors of New Mexico and Alabama, Senator Morris Shcppard, the Texas Federation of Women's Clubs, the Texas Press Association and other organizations. Her plan for a League of Nations was sent to the National Administration and Senator Sheppard sent lur name to the Norwegian parliament, the body which has the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize, recommending that she be placed among the contestants. This prize amounts to $v30,000 in money and a $10,000 diamond. Former President Roosevelt and Elihu Root are the only two .\mericans wlio liave ever been awarded this i:)rize.
The resolution as endorsed by the 'I'cxas Federation of \\'omen's Clubs and Press Association follows :
"Whereas, God in His all wise infinite wisdom and mercy has seen fit to use our present national administration as His handiwork in negotiating treaties of peace among nations of the world thereby making sudden warfare practically prevent- able between the nations that have signed these treaties.
"And whereas, sudden warfare is no longer to be dreaded, therefore there appears to be no longer a need of maintaining a large standing army and navy that is such an enormous ex- l)ense to maintain. It costs the United States 43 per cent of all our national revenue to keep jirepared for war in time of peace and in addition 29 ])er cent in time of peace to pay pen-
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sions for past wars. Seventy-two per cent per annum all told is the cost of keeping prepared for wars and in the past for pensions.
"And whereas, if this ever increasing expense for maintain- ing standing armies and navies is stopped there will be more money for educational purposes and to aid in the economical problems that confront us ; in lessening the burden of taxation ; in the advantageous marketing of our products and in mak- ing farm life more attractive.
"And whereas, the present burdensome cost of armaments is out of harmony with the spirit of the age — relics of dark and barbarous days which we hope will never come to us again.
"Therefore, be it resolved,
"First : That we earnestly petition our national government to enter into treaties with all the nations of the earth who will reciprocate with us, and who will jointly agree one with another and us not to increase the strength of their present armies and navies nor to spend more money on their upkeep than is necessary to maintain their present efficiency pending an understanding for the agreement for eventual disarma- ment of all individual nations party to this covenant, allowing these nations to have a home guard or national guard suffi- cient to protect their peoples within their borders and an in- ternational army and navy for the mutual protection of all nations entering this treaty just as each State in the United States has its home guard and just as the United States has its regular soldiers.
"Second : The expense of this international guard to be pro rated among the nations entering this treaty.
"Third : The size and purchase of this international guard to be determined by a commission or board of governors elected by each nation entering this treaty — a commission se- lected similar to our national senate."
As this resolution was framed and adopted before the war the tenure of it is somewhat different to what it would have been had the matter come up for consideration since the United States entered the war.
The plan of Mrs. Shapard as outlined in this resolution might indicate to some that she is a pacifist and as such is out of harmony with the administration in the present war. Noth- ing is further from the truth. She is in total harmony with the administration in the war program and favors fighting until German autocracy is crushed so it will never rise again.
Mrs. Shapard believes that the proper place to lay the foun- dation for lasting peace is in the school rooms of the nation.
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On this theory as member of the peace committee of the Wo- men's Federated Chibs, she has been instrumental in encour- aging the writing of peace essays by school children. While residing in AVichita Falls several years ago she took the lead in raising a fund which was used as prize money to encourage the children in the schools of that city to studv peace. Prizes were given for the best essays on peace. She was also instru- mental in carrying out the plan in the Inter-Scholastic League of Texas. She expects to take this matter up in Port Arthur at an early date.
]Mrs. Shapard believes if the school children of the nation become interested in peace and are taught that peace is more honorable than war, that the sentiment of the nation will be changed and that when this spirit has spread throughout the world there will be no more wars. The majority of the school histories, Mrs. Shapard points out, paint the heroes of war as glorious persons. Boys, studying such histories, she declares, come to look upon war as a glorious and honorable thing and when they grow to manhood they retain these ideas imbedded in their minds during their school days.
This same plan of teaching peace to school children, Mrs. Shapard believes, will be more instrumental than anything else, in bringing about industrial peace. If boys and girls, while they are in school, study industrial problems' they will become familiar with conditions as they will find them when they leave school. If they enter their life work Avith some knowledge of these matters and a desire inspired in them while in school, to be instrumental in maintaining harmony in the industrial world, there will be fewer strikes and fewer disputes between capital and labor.
The nomination of Mrs. Shaj^ard for the Noliel Peace Prize has come without any solicitation whatever on her part. In proposing the League of Nations she had no idea Avhatever that she was doing something that would bring national rec- ognition of her work.
As the result of an address on jjcace which she delivered before the Northwest Texas Press Association at Memphis in 1913, Mrs. Shapard Avas made an honorary member of the association, and a resolution passed by the association indors- ing the League of Nations plan as outlined in her address was sent to the national administration. \\'illiam J. Bryan, who was at that time secretary of state, acknowledged receipt of the resolution and thanked Mrs. Shapard for the proposal of the League of Nations as a means of bringing about world- wide peace.
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The copy of the resolution passed by the association embody- ing Mrs. Shapard's plan is now on file in Washington.
Mrs. Shapard attended the peace congress held in St. Louis in 1913. She was also elected a delegate from the Texas Fed- eration of Womens Clubs to the peace conference at The Hague, but because of a combination of circumstances over which she had no control, did not get to make the trip.
There is probably not a woman in the State who has given the thought to this problem that Mrs. Shapard has. Sickened by the horrors of war as she has learned of them through her own ancestors, who have taken part in every war that has ever been fought on American soil, and by the great conflict that is now raging in Europe, it is the consuming desire of Mrs. Shapard to be instrumental in bringing about a peace that will be everlasting.
Mrs. Shapard lived at Port Arthur part of the time during the war period where she worked constantly with Red Cross, Liberty Bonds and Thrift Stamps. She was chairman of the woman's department of Council of National Defense. She was also chairman of children's work there for six months and thoroughly organized Jefferson County for that work. She also worked with the Food Administration.
She has one son, Will Christensen of Houston. Mrs. Sha- pard spent many years in Houston. She belongs to Houston Pen Women. She is a beautiful writer, a woman of splendid intellect and lovely disposition. She is a Daughter of the American Revolution and a Daughter of the Confederacy.
KATIE DAFFAN
A full and complete biography of Katie Daffan appears in "Who's Who," in "Woman's Who's Who of America," and in "Texas Woman's Hall of Fame," from which biog- raphies the following brief biog- raphy is prepared :
Texas claims a brilliant, versatile and successful woman in Katie Daf- fan. In literary, educational and pa- triotic work she is distinguished, while there is no woman the South more widely and favorably known or better loved than she. Miss Daf- fan is the author of "Women in His- tory," biographical studies of great women in all periods of the world's historical development,
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and "The Woman on the Pine Springs Road," a qnanit femi- nine philosophv. touched with a sparkhng romance. My Father as I Remember Him" is her father's Hte m memonam. "Texas Heroes" is a story book for children, which mckides the biographies of the celebrated characters in Texas history. "\s Thinketh a Woman" is a collection of her early poems. "Texas Writers." a compilation bv D. F. Eagleton. late pro- fessor of English in Austin College, includes much ot Miss Dafifan's work. Miss Daft'an is a member ot the Authors League of America, which includes in its membership only those authors of national and international reputation.
As State President of the Daughters of the Confederacy of Texas Miss Daffan accomplished a great work along memo- rial and historical lines, and many Chapters throughout the State were organized during her administrations. She has given liberally of her talents and of her time to the comfort and well-being of the Confederate soldiers. She has been twice appointed, by the Commander of the Texas Division United Confederate' Veterans. "Sponsor" for Texas, at the gen- eral Confederate re-unions. She was also appointed Sponsor for the South" by General Bennett H. Young. Commander-in- Chief of the Southern Hosts, which is among the highest so- cial distinctions enjoyed by a Southern woman. In recogni- tion of this honor conferred upon Miss Daffan. the Senate and the House of Representatives of Texas unanimously ex- pressed their appreciation and approval to General Young.
Miss DaflFan is secretary for life of Hood's Texas Brigade, of which brigade her father. Colonel L. A. Daflfan. was a mem- ber She was the first superintendent of the Texas Conted- erate Woman's Home at Austin, to which office she was ap- pointed by Governor O. B. Colquitt. After successfully pre- siding over this State institution for more than seven years, she resigned, in order to resume, actively, her literary work
\s president of the Texas Woman's Press Association she did much toward advancing and developing woman s work on newspapers, and along general literary lines. She has success- fully served as State Historian of the Daughters of the Amer- ican Revolution, and she is vice-president ot the I exas His- torical Association.
Miss Daffan is deeply interested in the "art of story-tcllmg," and charmingly entertains large audiences of children of vari- ous ages, as well as all associations or organizations which hold the interest of the child foremost. She sometimes tells her own original stories, sometimes myths and legends, some- times the standard English. American or French historical stories. She includes among her friends thousands oi chil-
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dren, and she has "told stories" to the soldiers at their camps, taking them back to their own childhood firesides, or giving them "stories" which they can tell again to their own little ones, when they return to their homes.
Miss Daffan is now devoting her time to literary work and all that pertains thereto.
ARABIA TEMPLE, O. M. S.
One of the most active of the fraternal organizations of Houston during the period of the war and for its successful prosecution was Arabia Temple, Order of the Mystic Shrine. It gave unstinted support to the Government in all of its war activities and its membership, numbering some fourteen hun- dred, took a prominent part in all of the campaigns organized to support war work, promote the sale of Liberty Bonds and assisted generally in every undertaking having for its purpose the winning of the war.
The outstanding feature of the Shriners' participation in the war is the fact that 356 of the 1400 members of Arabia Temple participated in the active prosecution of the war. The temple was represented in every branch of the service, and even before the United States troops began to move to France to take their places in the front line trenches, several of the more distinguished members were in France filling prominent places and directing the work of preparation for the larger task that was to follow. They especially were active in the engineering and railroad construction branch of the service, while a number of them were engaged in signal corps work, considered one of the most important branches of the service.
Five gold stars have found a place on Arabia Temple service flag. Two of the four men who made the supreme sacrifice sleep beneath the poppies in Flanders Field, one was killed by a falling airplane, another died in the aerial service and a third fell a victim of the influenza in Camp Logan while he was preparing to go to France.
Arabia Temple carried on special campaigns among its mem- bers for the purchase of Liberty Bonds and War Savings Stamps, as well as to promote subscriptions to Red Cross and War Work funds. In one Liberty Loan campaign, the mem- bership of the temple subscribed for a total of $275,000 worth of Liberty Bonds, and in all of the campaigns high records were made along this line.
No individual honor has been claimed by any of the members of the temple for the part it played in these activities. The organization worked as a unit in all of the undertakings.
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MR. A. R. HOWARD
Mr. A. R. Howard is the father of Dr. Philo A. Howard, Lieutenant Colonel D. S. Howard of the U. S. Navy, and Geo. T. Howard, who is Secretary of State. Mr. A. R. Howard was for several years Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Texas. At the time of the terrible Galveston storm he raised $30,000 in two days for the suiTerers. Mr. Howard has been treasurer for the I. & G. N. Railway for more than thirt\- Acars.
MRS. A. R. HOWARD
Mrs. A. K. 1 low- ard is one of I lous- ton's most widely known and well be- loved women. She and lu'r husband re- sided in Houston more than citrht ytTirs. They came to I louston from Palestine, Texas, to be more C(jnvenient to Mr. Howard's Work. Mrs. How- ard is regent of the William F i n d 1 e y Chapter, Daughters of Confederacy. She is the only regent this chapter has ever had. Siie was also State president of the Daughters of the Confederacy for two terms and was
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State chairman of building fund for Confederate Woman's Home at Austin eight years. On account of the great con- fidence reposed in Mrs. Howard by many other chapters throughout the State she is often asked to represent them at conventions. unveiHng of monuments, and other gatherings. She is a splendid speaker, and her executive ability is truly wonderful. She is a leader of women and a true friend. The beautiful medallion she wears was presented her at a State convention and the following proverb is inscribed upon it : "Give her of the fruit of her hands and let her own works praise her in the gates." She is now honorary president of the William Findley Chapter.
Mrs. Howard was vice-president and director of Texas Woman's Fair, the only institution of its kind in the world. She is also president of the Axson Club. The object of this organization is intellectual pursuits, social culture and by or- ganized efi^ort to aid such worthy causes as may enlist its sympathy. This club did splendid work during the war period. They worked at Red Cross, sold Liberty Bonds and Thrift Stamps, helped with Christmas packages for the soldiers, and did canteen work. They raised two thousand dollars with a trinket fund and donated the money to help rebuild the little French village Tollohey. They also adopted a French orphan. These ladies often sent flowers, cake and other delicacies to the hospital at Ellington Field. Mrs. Howard also adopted two boys from the field and entertained many others at different times.
MRS. E. A. NORTON
When the war broke out Mrs. Norton was one of Houston's most busy women. She was a director of Texas Woman's Fair and had given wonderful service as chairman of the canning department and when the Fair dropped its special activities to take up war work she was one of the first to ofifer her services for her country. She did splendid work as chairman of one division of Red Cross Auxiliary of Texas Woman's Fair under Mrs. W. M. Baines as general chairman ; also acted as cap- tain of canteen work for Red Cross Auxiliary of Texas Woman's Fair under direction of Mrs. A. C. Ford of canteen. She was also assistant chairman of Red Cross Auxiliary of Elks Club. She
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was one of the first to volunteer for the Ambulance Motor Corps instruction and passed a 100 per cent examination and was about to organize an Ambulance Motor Corps for the Government through the National League of Woman's Serv- ice, and was also studying French when she was taken ill. She is a trained nurse and is a graduate of the Laura Franklin Hospital of New York. She was anxious to be qualified for whatever service she might be called on to perform and wished to be able to do the thing that was most needed.
Mrs. Norton's activities are too numerous to mention. She worked day and night and was ever happy in what she did.
Mrs. Norton's daughter was one of our most famous enter- tainers during the war period. She was on programs for sol- diers two or three nights a week for more than a year.
BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE ORDER OF ELKS, HOUSTON LODGE No. 151
Nearly thirty years ago, a group of citizens of Houston gathered in a room in the Burns Building in this city and or- ganized the Houston Lodge of Elks. To lie more exact, it was on January 18, 1890, that this event occurred. It was an occa- sion which was destined to result in important develoi)ments in the growth of Elkdom in Texas and in the progress of the cit\" of Houston.
'J'his grouj) of citizens numbered about 30, who were the charter members o\ llouston Lodge No. 151. benevolent and Protective Order of l^lks. Later several names were added to the charter list, bringing the total up to 38. Of that small band, only three have survived the toll of Father Time. They are George T. Jones, George F. Arnold and June Cox.
The question of securing suitable (|uarU'rs for a niciting l)lace was the first matter of importance decided ui)on. Mr. Faulkner, the first treasurer of the Lodge, at that time owned a piece of property on which was located Blackburn's studio. This was on Prairie Avenue between Main and Fannin Streets. It was fitted up especially for the use cjI the h'lks, and in that ])lace the club made its first real home, the lUirns B)uilding having l)een used merely as a temporary meeting ])lace during organization.
The membership had steadily grown, and larger cjuarters were needed, so a lease was taken for a period of five years in the Binz Building with an option of renewal. The rental was $100 a month, 'i'he Lodge moved to the I'inz P.uilding in 1895.
The Lodge retained its home in the llinz lUiilding for a
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period of ten years from the time the building was completed, and during that period it took on new life. One of the great- est obstacles was in overcoming in the beginning mistaken impressions as to its character and purposes.
After the ten years spent in the Binz Building the Lodge moved to the Prince Theatre Building, where larger quarters were again secured. By this time the Lodge had grown from a membership of about 50 to over 600, and it gradually began to take its place as a strong factor in the community.
From the Prince Theatre Building the Lodge moved to the Levy Building on Travis Street, where it remained for five years, until 1915, when it again moved, this time to the Stern Building over the Krupp & Tufifly shoe store on Main Street.
Mr. Geo. G. Timmins is a charter member of the club and April, 1916, he was elected secretary. It is through his efforts that the club has its present beautiful home.
About this time a high official of the Thalian Club called upon Mr. Timmins, and informed him that the club was seek- ing a location to erect a combination office and club building. Mr. Timmins at once suggested the two lots in which the Elks Club had an equity of $22,000, and that they could be traded for the Thalian Club's lot and building.
The trade was effected in about fifteen minutes time, the Elks Club giving the two lots free and clear and transferring the $33,000 mortgage to the Thalian Club property. There were no commissions paid, and both sides were perfectly satis- fied with the proposition. Of course there was a great deal of detail work to be done in order to finally consummate the deal.
It was in this connection that the late Mayor Pastoriza gave of his time and effort, devoting himself whole-heartedly and unsefishly to the task of getting affairs in shape. With the assistance of his able board of directors of the building asso- ciation all details were worked out, which resulted in Houston Lodge No. 151 taking title to its own home in August, 1916.
The building committee under which the new home was purchased on August 2, 1916, was composed of the following: J. J. Pastoriza, president; A. Y. Austin, vice-president; Will W. Thomas, secretary-treasurer. Directors : Jo S. Rice, John H. Lang, T. E. Ravell, E. A. Hudson, B. A. Riesner, H. B. Finch, and Herschel Ehlert, assistant secretary and collector. Since the death of Mr. Pastoriza, A. Y. Austin has been act- ing president. The home was occupied by the Lodge on Octo- ber 1, 1916.
The first honorary life member of the lodge was Robert Brewster, who was given that distinction early in the career
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 143
of the Order. Since that time the honor has been bestowed upon the following five members, in appreciation of conspicu- ous and distinguished services rendered to the Lodge : James Lawlor, W. E. Jones, Frank Roberts, Ben Berry and George G. Timmins.
The Elks in War
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was founded upon the principles and ideals of thorough Americanism. From the day that it first entered upon the broad sphere and wide field of fraternalism. it spread as the first and foremost doc- trine of its existence the spirit of patriotism.
It is not surprising, therefore, that in the present struggle of the Nation for the upholding of democratic ideals and the preservation of Liberty the Elks should stand in the front ranks. The mainstay of Elkdom is brotherhood and brotherly love. Prussianism seeks to array brother against brother. How natural that the Order of Elks should rise in its might against the Prussian despot.
The same spirit and the same influence which brought about the creation of the Order of Elks at a time when the scars left by the war l)etween the States had not yet healed, and which played a prominent part in reuniting the several bonds l)et\vecn North and South, is abroad upon the land again today.
That same spirit and influence, wielded by the Order of Elks, has spread across the land, calling to the members of the flock to unite again today under freedom's banner. The call has gone forth, and the response has been glorious.
Lodge No. 151 answered all calls U>v aid. They subscrilu-d liberally to Liberty Loan Bonds and aided in securing sul)scrip- tions in large amounts.
In the third Liberty Loan campaign, Houston Lodge con- ducted a drive which' resulted in the sale of $300,000 bonds. The Elks l)and paraded the streets, and the individual members made patriotic speeches.
As soon as the spacious main floor ol the I'Jks' home was properly fitted up, half of it was turned over to llie local Red Cross Auxiliary as their headcjuarters.
These are just a few of the instances of loyalty and jjatriot- ism which dominate the entire life of the Order of Elks. It has never failed to meet the highest call of duty to America.
Officers during the war period were : Judge A. R. Hamblen, Exalted Ruler; Dr. Chas. M. Lusk, Exalted Ruler; F. S. Rob-
144 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
erts, J. H. B. House, G. G. Timmins, R. J. Comstock, R. B. Baldwin, T. W. Moses, C. Grunwald, Henry F. Falk, Herschel Ehlert.
Red Cross Auxiliary to Houston Lodge No. 151 : Mrs. G. G. Timmins, Mrs. Dr. Sid J. Smith, Mrs. E. A. Norton, Mrs. D. D. La Favor.
$60,000 was donated to the Salvation Army for its children and orphans of soldiers, $1,000,000 was contributed to the members of War Relief work under direction of Elks War Relief Commission.
Service flag of 112 stars ; service flag of two gold stars, E. D. Shock killed in action November 4, 1918; Silas McCollum at Camp Meade, October 1, 1918:
The Service Flag
Dear little flag in the window there. Hung with a tear and a woman's prayer ; Child of Old Glory, born with a star — Oh, what a wonderful flag you are.
Blue is your star in its field of white. Dipped in the red that was born of fight ; Born of the blood that our forebears shed To raise your mother, The Flag, o'erhead.
And now you've come, in this frenzied day, To speak from a window — to speak and say : "I am the voice of a soldier son. Gone to be gone till the victory's won.
"I am the flag of The Service, sir ;
The flag of his mother — I speak for her.
Who stands by my window and waits and fears,
But hides from the others her unwept tears.
"I am the flag of the wives who wait
For the safe return of a martial mate,
A mate gone forth where the war god thrives.
To save from sacrifice other men's wives.
"I am the flag of the sweethearts true ; The often unthought of — the sisters, too. I am the flag of a mother's SON, And won't come down till the victory's won."
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ALFRED R. HAMBLEN
Under the leadership of Exalted Ruler Alfred R. Hamblen, the Houston Lodge of Elks has seen its most prosperous period. Words are unavailing to express the sentiments of devotion and admiration which are felt towards him by each and every member. \\'hile he has been honored in being ele- vated to the highest place within the gift of the Lodge, the membership is doubly honored in having such a leader.
Exalted Ruler Hamblen is a Houston product, and his life and career here is too well known to require rehearsal. He has been honored by the citizenship and by the members of his profession time and again. In what great esteem he is held is evidenced by his re-election to the office of Exalted Ruler for a second term. That is a rare distinction, and one which is seldom oft'ered.
DR. C. M. LUSK
Was Esteemed Leading Knight during the first part of the war period and became Exalted Ruler be- fore the war closed and still retains that office. Dr. Lusk took a strong, active part in all the war activities, giving freely of his time in all drives for funds. Liberty Loans, War Savings Stamps. War Community Service, etc. His wife also was very active in all war work. Dr. Lusk was born and raised in Houston, his family having resided here for more than 35 years. Dr. Lusk was edu- cated at Georgetown and attended the Chicago Medical and Surgery College. He is a young man of great promise, having made wonderful strides in the citv's advancement.
already
146 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
ROTARY CLUB WARTIME ACTIVITIES R. H. Spencer, "War President'*
The Rotary Club of Houston had a vital part in the war activities of the city. Not only in material assistance rendered to all war enterprises, but in furnishing leadership in all the various campaigns, the club rendered fine service.
Beginning with the Rotary Circus, which was given in the spring of 1917, under the direction of James Dow, the club was at all times a faithful friend to the Red Cross. From the Rotary Circus more than $800 was derived and at Christmas, 1917, funds for the Red Cross totalling more than $1200 were raised. Aside from these sums the club made liberal donations from its own treasury.
John T. Scott, general director for this division, and Fred T. Wilson, in charge of the South Texas Speakers' Bureau for Red Cross, were both members of the Rotary Club.
Under the leadership of James Dow and Court Norton the club raised about $4000 with which instruments for the Elling- ton Band were purchased.
The flag pole at Ellington Field was donated by the club. F. M. Law, chairman, and J. P. Richardson, secretary of the club, served in these respective capacities in the Four-Minute Men's organization. Among the Rotarians who won the Cer- tificate of Honor for services as Four-Minute Men were : Frank C. Jones, Paul W. Horn, Harry Willcockson, Peter Gray Sears, Minor Stewart, Fred T. Wilson and R. H. Spencer.
Joseph W. Evans served as County Chairman in the United War Work campaign in the fall of 1918.
Among those who served as chairmen of special committees in the War Savings campaign of 1918 were : James Dow, P. W. Horn and Fred T. Wilson.
In all the Liberty Bond campaigns the club furnished active workers. R. H. Spencer, as president of the club, served as right hand man in the Fourth Liberty Loan campaign and Vic- tory Loan campaign. Among the Rotarians who were most active in this work were J. H. Pittman, J. L. Myers, A. S. Vandervoort and A. S. Pimentel.
A. S. Pimentel, J. B. Westover and Geo. F. Conant rendered conspicuous service in campaign for funds for advertising w^ar enterprises.
In the 1919 campaign to sell War Savings Stamps, H. A. Halverton of the club is county chairman and the entire club is behind him in this work.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 147
W. C. Paige, H. H. O.rem, Charles H. Jenkins, George E. Stock and ^^'ilbur Gaston served in Y. M. C. A. service during the war.
D. M. Tourtellot served in the Red Cross work in Italy.
The Rotarians who were in active war service were : Chester Toy, of the Signal Corps ; W. W. Ralston, John H. Foster, Lyle J. Logue and Roy D. Wilson, in the Medical Corps ; Robert Neal in Coffee Division, Q. M. C. ; George Leake, in P. O. Division, France ; John H. Freeman, in Aviation ; Fred Austin, Marines ; Ralph Cooley, Dental Corps ; Eben Stanley, Aviation Service ; Leo Levy and J. J. Rogers, Infantry ; C. A. Fisher, Signal Battalion ; Moody Dawson, in war service at Wash- ington.
Under the direction of John Patrick extensive collection of clothing for Belgian refugees was made.
Herbert C. May served as director of campaign for Arme- nian and Syrian relief, rendering fine service.
Elijah Coles served as State chairman of Smileagc IJooks. Alvin Moody and A. E. Kiesling directed the sales in Houston.
James Shelton served in his usual whole-souled way on all committees for Red Cross, Liberty Bonds. Thrift Stamps and all relief drives.
Sam Harris, of the club, died in France of pneumonia while in active service.
R. H. Spencer was a])p<)inted l)y Governor ll()l)by on vState committee to select land for soldiers. He also rendered great service in the Food Administration campaign.
A. J. Hazlett was the representative of the Government in plan for conservation of oil.
F. M. Law was one of the executive officers of tlu- I louston Chapter A. R. C.
John S. Bonner was one of the effective speakers in all cam- paigns for bond issues and Red Cross.
F. E. Russell served as treasurer in .Armenian and Syriati Relief campaign.
148 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
THE HARRIS COUNTY EQUAL SUFFRAGE ASSOCIATION
This organization was headed during the war period by Mrs. Hortense Ward, and a great many of Houston's best, most earnest and patriotic women were ardent workers for suffrage.
Among the foremost were Mrs. Harris Masterson, Mrs. B. L. Young, Mrs. G. A. Young, Mrs. Thomas Eggert, Mrs. Joe Palmer, Miss Pansy Holdman, Miss Florence Sterling and many others.
The principal work during this period was the organization of units throughout the country to co-operate with head- quarters along lines patriotic and political. Liberty Loan rallies were held at many points with great success. A Liberty Bond booth at Rice Hotel, operated by an efficient committee, increased sales during the third issue of bonds over $300,(X)0. During sales of smileage books for entertainment of our sol- dier boys one hundred were taken by the membership.
In October drive for sales of Liberty Bonds, fourth issue, the services of their executive secretary were tendered Harris County Women's Liberty Loan Committee, and work was carried on from their desk. Despite the handicap of influenza epidemic and inability to hold meetings the efforts of the women of this organization, through house to house canvass and down town booth, amounted to $610,000, a good share of the total secured by the woman's committee, $2,339,000.
The United War Work fund received as its contribution from their work over $10,000, and the Red Cross Christmas Roll Call, through residence canvass, made in bad weather by the women, was increased to the extent of 1433 memberships, the workers assisting also in down town booths.
Once each month throughout the year their services have been given at recreational canteens, the last assignment falling on Christmas Day, at which time, assisted by War Camp Com- munity Service, they entertained almost a thousand soldiers, a Christmas dinner and tree being popular features of the day.
During November and December committees from the or- ganization operating War Savings banks, sold $15,822.48 worth of Stamps, occupying all banks December 30.
The success attained by this organization in 1918 grew out of the wonderful spirit of unselfish co-operation characterizing the efforts of their co-workers, and never did they neglect opportunity for usefulness in connection with war work.
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149
ORGANIZED LABOR HELPFUL IN SPIRIT AND PERFORMANCE
An elT(jrt to prcsetit a liistory of war work in Houston with- out including a chapter on the helpfuhiess of organized labor would omit perhaps the most effective single influence that contributed to the successful outcome of our struggle for democracy and human welfare. Yet an attempt to set down in detail the various activities of trade unions affiliated with the Houston Labor and Trades Council would lead into a labyrinth of patriotic endeavors \\hich in themselves w^ould require volumes to record.
One has authority to speak for organized labor only to the extent of his information and understanding. We may judge its attitude, however, l)y its history and performance. Upon this basis it may be asserted with unreserved assurance that the organized workers of Houston solidly supported the gov- ernment and valiantly defended American ideals. They were eager to perform any service or make any sacrifice for the common good.
150 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Not only were thousands of union men doing their full and heroic duty in the ranks of our fighting men on the battle fronts, but here at home, in every field of service, they w^ere striving with patriotic loyalty and fervent devotion to increase the efficiency and power of America that our institutions might be preserved and the triumph of world democracy speed- ily achieved.
There was no quarrel, no contention, between the govern- ment and the unions. To the contrary, they recognized the mutuality of interests that makes them interdependent.
No element of citizenship more truly represents the spirit of America than does organized labor of today; no element served with greater zeal and less selfishness during the war. It is for the ultimate happiness of all humanity that America strives ; it is to the same end that labor unions have been ad- vancing with varying degrees of progress for three-score years. They realized that civilization can not ascend above the level of economic conditions and that social progress comes only with a like measure of economic advancement.
It was fortunate for us, and for the world, that, during the assault upon our traditions and the ideals of democracy, our course was directed by a vision perceiving not only the true spirit of America but the relative values of its constituent in- fluences. Woodrow Wilson proved that he knew the hearts of workingmen to be true, loyal to the common cause. He showed that he understood the principles of their organiza- tions, and wisely protected their associated power that it might be used to the advantage of all in prosecution of the war.
By no other means tolerable to a liberty-loving people could industry have continued free from serious interruption and constant menace under conditions so abruptly and radically altered. Without the counsel and co-operation of Samuel Gompers and other experienced men of ability, in direct touch with the workers themselves, it would have been hazardously difficult, if not insuperably disastrous, to embark upon indus- trial expansion on such a scale as America attained.
The course of organized labor in Houston since the war has been one of consistent conservatism, out of which has come steady and substantial progress. It is natural that, in the first twelvemonth of reconstruction — a period of trying economic conditions — there should be disturbed industrial relations ; but, even in this respect, local workers and business interests have been singularly fortunate. The harmony and teamwork that made Houston's war activities effective promise to continue through our era of peace.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 151
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ACTIVITIES
The best evidence as to the manner in which the citizens of Houston responded to calls made upon them was a personal letter from INIajor General Bell, addressed to the Chamber of Commerce, commending the citizens for the manner in which the merchants generally had handled the members of his divi- sion during the 14 months in which they were encamped at Camp Logan. Every detail, from the leasing of land to the purchasing of supplies, was handled through the Chamber of Commerce. The Cantonment Committee of the Chamber of Commerce devoted much time not only to the locating of Camp Logan but to the construction of a gravel road extension of the street railway and water lines.
The location of Ellington Field, now considered not only one of the largest but the greatest flying field in the L'^nited States, was secured by the Chamber of Commerce, the details of which were handled in the same manner as Camp Logan, having something over 3000 acres under lease, 1280 of which has recently been purchased by the government, for which they paid approximately $90,000.00, making a total investment of more than $2,000,000.00. The Congressional Committee on Military Affairs, which recently visited this field, not only gave its endorsement ot this field as being the greatest in the United States, but recommended the purchase of additional lands, thereby insuring it to be one of the largest flying fields in the United States. The Chamber of Commerce is now negotiating for the i)urchase of these additional lands upon which the government now holds a lease. These negotiations have been of such a character that it has required the services of one man from the Chamber of Commerce from the time of the war with Germany until the present time. The location of Camp Logan and Ellington Field has meant the expenditure of many thousands of dollars by the government, of which the merchants and l)usiness men of Houston have l:)een benefited, and Houston has received her share of advertising, which come by reason of the establishing of these two imjjortant army camps. It is an endorsement of the efforts of the Cham- ber of Commerce to know that Houston has been selected by the United States Government for one of its permanent flying fields, where many men will l)e trained for the Air Service.
In the summer of 1915, when the Second Division of the United States Army was stationed at Texas City, under com- mand of Major General Franklin Bell, General Bell visited Houston with a view of selecting quarters for the Second Di- vision. At that time there was no thought of mobilizing the
152 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
forces of the United States for war with Germany, but realiz- ing the many advantages offered by Houston for an army camp, General Bell tentatively selected the camp site which was later designated as Camp Logan.
In the summer of 1917 a board, composed of Army officers, designated by the War Department for the purpose of select- ing an army camp, visited Houston, and in connection with a committee from the Chamber of Commerce this board went over the ground which had formerly been inspected by Gen- eral Bell. Later a second board inspected this camp site, and through the Chamber of Commerce secured leases on 2095 acres, which composed the first lease executed between the Chamber of Commerce and the United States Government for the purpose of a camp site to be used for the mobilization of troops. Later, additional grounds were added to this camp, until the camp site comprised more than nine acres. This was used for the training of the Thirty-Third Division, known as the Illinois National Guards, commanded by Major General George Bell, Jr. The activities, not only pertaining to the leasing of these grounds, but the housing of the officers, wives and families, were carried on by the Chamber of Commerce. In fact every activity pertaining to the welfare of the soldiers being negotiated through the Chamber of Commerce.
J. S. CULLINAN, President.
D. S. CAGE, Vice President.
J. Z. GEORGE, General Manager.
J. W. LINK, Ch'm'n Cantonment Committee.
BEN S. DAVISON, Sec'y Military Affairs Com.
SPECIAL CHAIRMAN
153
Special Chairmen
EDWIN B. PARKER
Mr. Parker left Houston in July, 1917, to take the chairmanship of the Priorities Committee of the Council of National Defense. He remained at the head of this committee until the armistice was signed. He was then appointed by the President as chairman of the Liquidation Com- mission, charged with the duty of liquidating all claims and accounts and unfinished settlements between the United States and its allies. He is still in France in connection with this work, but will conclude it and return to Houston before the end of the present year.
LIBERTY LOAN CAMPAIGNS
Houston Led All Texas Cities in Subscriptions
Honorable Chester H. Bryan, County Judge of Harris County, was chairman of the five Liberty Loan drives. The patriotic men and wo- men of the city gave unstintingly ot their time and money to this fund.
In each of the five Liberty Loan drives the city exceeded its quota. This was notably true in the third, when subscriptions amounted to ap- proximately three million more than had been assigned to the district. The quotas in the five campaigns amounted to about $39,000,000, while there was a total of more than $45,- 000,000 subscribed, the excess being more than $6,000,000.
Houston was the only large city in the State of Texas to exceed its quota in the fifth campaign, which was known as the "Victory" loan.
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SPECIAL CHAIRMAN
First Liberty Loan— Quota, $5,270,000 ; subscribed $5,930,500. Second Liberty Loan — Quota, $6,550,350 ; subscribed $6,714,- 300.
Third Liberty Loan— Quota, $8,761,600; subscribed $9,777,- 550.
Fourth Liberty Loan— Quota, $10,500,000; subscribed $13,- 251,150.
Fifth (Victory) Loan— Quota, $7,593,800; subscribed $7,- 680,650.
WAR SAVINGS STAMPS
Houston at all times delivered 100 per cent in results in all her activities. So when the War Sav- ings Stamps were issued adults and children alike bought them and cherished them as a child does a new toy. With delight they watched their treasure grow. Children were happy in saving their ice cream and candy money for stamps. Many women and girls wore their old clothing that they might help by buying stamps. The quota assigned to the dis- trict was $3,071,000. Mr. Guy M. Bryan, one of the leading bankers in the city, managed the campaign and built up an efficient organiza- tion of helpers.
So successful was the drive that the large and what seemed at the start as an impossible quota, was not only subscribed but the amount exceeded by approximately $300,000.
MR. H. A. HALVERTON
Mr. H. A. Halverton was chairman of Thrift Stamps after the signing of the armistice. Mr. Halverton is one of Hous- ton's most worthy citizens and is giving conscientiously of his time trying to awake in our citizens a spirit of economy and thrift. Mr. Halverton was city commissioner of Houston for a number of years.
H. W. Lewis conducted the campaign of education which had for its purpose the urging of men to keep their jobs.
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WAR SAVINGS BANKS
Ten of these little War Savings i^)anks were built at the exi)ense of the War Advertising Cmnmittee. They occupied prominent street corners in the city during the entire period of the campaign for the sale of W'ar Savings Stamps. They were kept open day and evenings and proved a great conve- nience to the public. They also did service in subsecpient campaigns and have since been sold as children's playhouses.
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SPECIAL CHAIRMAN
WAR SKETCH OF E. A. PEDEN
Edward Andrew Peden, President of the Peden Iron & Steel Company of Houston, San Antonio and Fort Worth, became Federal Food Ad- ministrator for Texas in September, 1917, and was in control of the dis- tribution of feed and foodstuffs throughout the war.
In December, 1918, Administrator Peden was summoned to Europe by Herbert Hoover, United States Food Administrator, to assist in the dis- tribution of foodstuffs to the allies - and the subjugated nations.
While in Europe he was a member of Mr. Hoover's personal staff at the American Relief Administration Headquarters in Paris. About the middle of March, 1919, at Mr. Hoover's request, he undertook perhaps the most impor- tant task of his public career, that of organizing the "Child Relief Bureau" of the A. R. A., its object being the supplying of at least one supplemental meal per day for the under-nour- ished children of Europe in both allied and enemy countries.
Mr. Peden's administration in Texas, during the war, was one of the most efficient of the forty-eight States of the Union and in many instances his service was so recognized by the authorities in Washington. He returned in July, 1919, after seven months of service abroad, and was only in Houston a matter of one month when he was again called into Federal service as Food Administrator for Texas to handle the issue of High Cost of Living under the Department of Justice. On October 11, 1919, he voluntarily resigned this work to the Department of Justice in Texas, resuming his life as a business man and private citizen.
Mr. Peden was born in Georgia on March 5, 1868, and is of American, Scotch Irish descent. He was educated in the city schools and Sam Bailey Male Institute of Griffin, Georgia, coming to Texas in 1883. His work as Food Administrator is the only public office he ever held, except as director and president of the Houston Chamber of Commerce.
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UNITED WAR WORK CAMPAIGN
In the second year of the war the Government decided that instead of having a drive to raise funds for each of the war re- lief organizations it would be a better plan to consolidate and launch a "United War Work" campaign. Mr. J. W. Evans was chosen as general manager of this campaign and again men. women and children were called into service. There was much self-denial and many sacrifices made by the very poor during all these drives, but' they seemed to be happy in giving. The quota for this drive was $325,000; $430,000 was raised.
The organizations that were to use this money for relief funds were ; Young Men's Christian Association, Young Wo- men's Christian Association, War Camp Community Service, Salvation Army. Knights of Columbus and American Library Association.
ARMENIAN-SYRIAN RELIEF
When the call came for help for the war sufferers in the Far l^ast. the War Advertising Committee found itself confronted with an- other task that was not contem- plated when the committee was called into being.
A. C. Ford, president of one of the lumber companies in Houston, was drafted to direct the cam- paign in the city and Herbert C. May, head of one of the city's commercial printing establish- ments, directed the work in the South Texas district.
This drive for relief funds was in no way different from the other drives for war relief. The people had learned that it was more "blessed to give than to receive," so they vied with each other in giving and Houston, as usual, went "over the top."
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SPECIAL CHAIRMAN
ACTIVITIES OF JEWISH WAR RELIEF COMMITTEE
FOR 1919
A proclamation by the Gover- nor of this State set aside the week of April 7th to the 12th for the Jewish War Relief Work. The committee was composed of the following: Mr. Abe M. Levy, chairman ; Mr. Dave H. Straus, vice-chairman and cam- paign manager; Mr. Jo S. Rice, treasurer.
Executive Committee : Mr. A. S. Cleveland, Mr. Will C. Hogg, Mr. C. Mendelsohn, Mr. A. A. Bath, Mr. S. F. Carter, Mr. Ike Keller, Mr. Leonard Werthan, Mr. Denton Cooley, Mr. Meyer Wagner, Mr. T. J. Donohoe, Mr. H. S. Fox, Jr., Mr. Simon Sako- witz, Mr. Jno. T. Scott, Mr. Robt. Wier, Mr. R. M. Farrar, Mr. Jno. R. Young. The Indus- trial Plan was adopted for raising funds. Chairmen of differ- ent lines of business were appointed, who in turn appointed their committee to solicit contributions from others in their same line of business.
Again the city was assigned a quota entirely out of propor- tion to that requested by other cities having the same popula- tion. Makers of quotas seemed to have learned of Houston's habit of doing more than it was asked for to help win the war and relieve distresses occasioned by it. Houston's quota of $100,000 was more than twice as much as some other cities of like population were asked to raise, and when half of the amount was subscribed telegrams of congratulation came from New York to Mr. Strauss, and when the goal was reached, he was accredited with having established "a most remarkable record."
CZECHO-SLOVAK RELIEF WORK
At 2:30 a. m. July 15, 1919, the Czecho-Slovak Battalion of Death, after traveling 18,000 miles from the farthest point of Siberia to the Pacific Coast, thence by boat in charge of the American Red Cross to California, United States of America, thence by train across the continent, the foot-tired, homesick convalescents reached Houston, where a grand reception awaited them. Every person identified with this race of people and many others were at the depot to greet them. Just a few
SPECIAL CHAIRMAN 159
days before Houston had given a "tag day" to raise money to help this race of people and their history had been repeated throughout the city. A great many relatives of the men in this famous battalion resided in Houston and there was great re- joicing, shouting, laughing and crying. Although it was 2 :30 a. m. the Municipal Band was on hand and ten or more Czecho- slovak women and girls were there dressed in their native costume carrying great trays of food prepared in Czecho- Slovonia style. The Red Cross as usual, with Mrs. Gilliland as chairman, served hot coffee and sandwiches.
WAR ADVERTISING COMMITTEE OF HOUSTON
Personnel of Committee — Tovell Marston, W. L. Macatee & Sons, General Chairman ; G. E. Kepple, Recorder Arabia Tem- ple, Director of Publicity; J. B. \Vestover, Advertising Mgr., Levy Bros. Dry Goods Co., Director of Advertising; A. S. Pimentel, Houston Bill Posting Co., Ways and Means ; Geo. F. Conant, Oakland Automobile Distributor, Speakers.
Early in the war the Government realized the necessity of invoking the pulling power of publicity in order to finance the various war activities. A committee of live of Houston's lead- ing citizens were appointed. This committee studied the plans used in other cities, adopted what they liked best and elimin- ating what seemed to present difficulties, they built up llie most efficient and economical plan adopted by any city in the South.
The cry at every hand was for conservation. That applied to advertising funds as to everything else. The Houston plan, provided for one budget for all purposes, lightened the labors of the campaign managers, pleased the people and brought results far beyond the exi)ectations of the committee itself.
That the Association's plan was highly satisfactory to those who were called upon to bear the expense is evidenced by the fact that after the rtrst fund of $5,300 was raised and expended the finance committee set out to raise $15,000 more— and after that amount was reached, money continued to conn- in until over $23,000 was received.
Results are the true index to the success of any campaign. In taking the final account of the war activities in Houston, not only does the work of the War Advertising Committee stand out prominently as compared with the work done in other cities, but the whole-hearted support accorded the gov- ernment by the press and other advertising mediums of the city must be given "top of column next to reading matter" consideration as one of the chief accomplishments of Houston's activity during the war.
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SPECIAL CHAIRMAN
WAR ADVERTISING COMMITTEE
G. E. Kepple , J. W. Westover
Tovell Marston A. S. Pimentel Geo. F. Connant
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DR. J. P. RICHARDSON Chairman Four-Minute Men
James Perkins Richardson is a native of the State of IlHnois ; he first came to Texas in 1892, where he was a teacher in the Ball High School at Galveston. He has made his home in Houston since 1913, where he is head master of the Prosso Preparatory School, a private institution preparing boys and girls for college.
Dr. Richardson was educated at Yale University, receiving his first degree in 1891 and the second in 1906. He has always been a teacher, first in the public schools, then an instructor at Yale, for the last thirty years he has been engaged in pri- vate school work.
In college he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta frater- nity. He is a thirty-second degree Mason, is past master of the Blue Lodge and of the Lodge of Perfection, and director of all degree work in the Scottish Rite bodies of Houston. He is a member of the Y. M. B. L., the Rotary Club, the Univer- sity Club and the Park Place Country Club.
During the war Dr. Richardson acted as secretary of the Four-Minute Men's organization of Houston ; as such he had charge of all the speaking in the theatres and churches of Houston, on the streets in the various campaigns, and in the school districts of Harris County. Associated with him were more than a hundred men and women who gave loyally of their time and money to further the cause of patriotism through the spoken word. Many of them made more than two hundred speeches during the war ; Dr. Richardson himself delivered nearly four hundred.
In addition to the local work Dr. Richardson was sent out of the county frequently to address audiences ; in one Red Cross campaign he was sent to Oklahoma, and in one bond campaign he made speeches in Missouri.
During all the term of the war Dr, Richardson was ably assisted by his wife, Ethel Park Richardson, who spoke con- stantly as a member of the Four-Minute organization, while at the same time serving as a meml)er of the Red Cross Motor Corps, in which she received certificates as aml)ulance driver and for first aid work.
Since the armistice Dr, Richardson has been asked many times to place his experience at the service of worthy organi- zations needing speakers, and has always l)een ready to assist to the best of his abilitv.
162
SPECIAL CHAIRMAN
MR. THOMAS FLAXMAN
Mr. Thomas Flaxman is one of the best known men in the social circles of Houston. He has for many years given unreservedly of his serv- ices in all enterprises that had for their aim the social uplift of the city. So w^hen the war broke out Mr. Flaxman very naturally was chosen chairman of a committee to look after wholesome entertainment for the soldiers stationed at Camp Lo- gan. He organized a committee of more than 300 men, women and chil- dren and put on one of the most magnificent entertainments of its kind ever produced by amateurs in
the city. This was called the "Community War Work Enter- tainment." One of the principal objects of these entertainers under Mr. Flaxman's supervision was to stir up enthusiasm over the sale of War Savings Stamps. He also gave valuable assistance in disposing of Liberty Bonds during every drive and did not at any time fail to contribute both money and val- uable service for all Red Cross work. Mr. Flaxman is a staunch supporter of all public enterprises that are of benefit to the city. He is chairman of what is known as the permanent ex- position board and hopes in the near future to find means to establish this splendid project for the upbuilding of Houston.
UNITED STATES EMPLOYMENT SERVICE
Mr. H. R. Christian was in charge of the United States Em- ployment Bureau. Records show that this city recruited more war workers than any city in the South. The great industries of the country did not for a moment suffer for want of labor. Men who loved to loaf were set to work, women took the place of their husbands and brothers who had gone to war. The spokes in the wheel fitted the cogs as smoothly as before the war.
ENTERTAINERS
163
MRS. JNO. WESLEY GRAHAM, JR.,
Formerly of St. Louis, 'Mo., artist
for the Choral Chib of that city,
and officer of the Ten O'Clock
Musicale Club. Mrs. Graham is
director of First M. E. Church of
Houston and has the largest
chorus choir of the South, having-
on special occasions 200 voices
and a standing choir of 100 voices.
all trained soloists, and an organ- ization that has no equal in the
South, having been in existence
for ten years. Under Mrs. Cra-
ham's direction and never-tiring
energy they have well earned and
deserved the name thev have —
The Best Choir in the South. They
gave many programs for l)oth El- lington Field and Logan that de- serve great mention for their
splendid arrangement and Mrs.
rrraham's concerts always draw
large audiences. For three years
Mrs. Graham was the president of the Music l)e])artment for
the State of Texas at the Texas Woman's Fair, bringing many
fine artists from all the cities of Texas here ; also Mrs. Graham brought foreign artists from the East and abroad. For three years Mrs. Graham has been the director for the Munn Com- munity Concerts which she organized and which are held each Wednesday afternoon in the Munn Auditorium from 3 to 4 o'clock for the poor.
During the war Mrs. Graham had charge of the music for €very Thrift drive, Liberty Loan and Red Cross drive of the City of Houston. Floats were arranged for the streets with pianos and the artists were the finest of the city that sang and assisted Mrs. Graham. From five to seven concerts a week vvere given to each camp by Mrs. Graham's pupils under her direction and a private train carried Mrs. Graham's choir to Prairie View. Texas, to sing under command from Washington for their army post at that place. Mrs. Graham's life has been given to the public for the last ten years, her musicales helping to sui)port and give pleasure to' the Harris County School for Girls. Harris County School for F.oys. Old Folks' Farm. Rayland Orjjhan Home. Newsbovs' Home^ Co-Operative Home for Girls, Y. W. C. A., Y. M. C. A., Boy Scouts, Elks,
16^
ENTERTAINERS
K. P., K. C, Masonic Orders, Jewish Literary Society, all fra- ternal organizations and church denominations of the city have received great help and feel a great uplift from her won- derful music.
Mrs. Graham is a great worker, loves everybody, and lives by the motto, "Live and Let Live" ; teaches over one hundred students each year, turns out hundreds of splendid artists and never tires of doing for others. In other words, she's a Big Little Woman. Some of the pupils who assist Mrs. Graham are: Mrs. Dan Vickers, Miss Mazie Parish, who won the State prize Oscar Scholarship for the entire State ; Miss Lena Mendelssohn, Miss Maidelle Ivy, Miss Corinne Garrison, Miss Vivian Soby, Mrs. V. H. Darris, Miss Lillian Richards, Miss Ethel Tompkins, Mrs. E. J. Flake, Miss Jessie Hogue, Mrs. Wm. Uhler, Mrs. L. R. Kier, Miss Ivey Gill, Miss Hilda Mul- lane, Margaret Rubbright, Ruth Thomas Ames, Sallie Lock- hart, Lillian Jett, Catherine Berryman, Mable Kelley, Hilda Gallia, Alzaida Knickerbocker, Frances O'Barr and many other prominent and favorite soloists.
MISS NAOMI DUKES
One of Plouston's Most Charming Entertainers and a Teacher of Expression.
Miss Dukes was a loyal and en- thusisatic worker for the cause of Liberty during the entire period of the war. She gave a number of pro- grams at L. B. A., Camp Logan, El- lington Field, both at Y. M. C. A. and Enlisted Men's Club, assisted most by the following pupils : Edris Ez- zell, Lodi Stockbridge, Wilhelmine Winerich, Marcia Bercofif, Bertha and Harry Gordon, Eva Louise Wes- tall, Richard Fagin and Hortense Gross. Also programs at the Can- teen. She had a circle of children who made gun wipes for the boys at Camp Logan and knitted different
articles, among them an ambulance robe. She organized a War Savings Stamp Club among children which was char- tered with National organization and sold W. S. S. in one of the W. S. S. banks.
ENTERTAINERS
165
MISS EDITH MAY BAINES
Miss Baines is the daughter of Mrs. W. M. Baines and she assisted her mother in entertaining the en- hsted men at Elhngton Field, Camp Logan and the L. B. A. Altogether 58 programs. Miss Baines worked constantly at knitting, often work- ing until twelve at night. She also gave good service with Texas Wo- man's Fair. Red Cross Auxiliary and Patriotic Leag^ue.
A few young ladies who assisted constant!}- with the enter- taining are Miss Sallie Lockhart, Miss Roberta Lockhart, Miss Maud Nicholson, Miss Martha Binde and Miss Effie Fromm.
MISS HILDA IRENE GALIA
Is one oi Ilouston's most talented young women and she will undoubt- edly be well remembered l)y the soldiers of Ellington Field and Camp Logan.
She is a graduate in Ivxpression. lia\ing completed a successful tour in the East, giving entertainments and concerts.
During the war she gave of her time freely, arranging programs for the soldiers' entertainment. She has a delightful personality and her readings ari- wonderfully pleasing. ■^ She l^raved the elements upon all oc- casions, never complaining; her only
thought was to bring cheer and smiles to the home-sick boys.
She claimed the distinction of being one who never failed to
fulfill an ai)pointment. She likewise never failed to please her
aiulifuce.
166
ENTERTAINERS
THE XXVI CLUB
Mrs. C. K. Willbanks
As soon as America entered the war Mrs. Willbanks was appointed chairman of the hospitality committee for the Woodland Methodist Church. The boys were invited to at- tend services and then taken home to be entertained in their homes. Luncheons were also served at the church for the boys.
In December, 1917, began serving at the Canteen as a mem- ber of the XXVI Club, baking and serving regularly once a month until the close of the Canteen. Was appointed general chairman of decorations and flowers committee for Canteen ; she went personally and put fresh flowers throughout the Can- teen rooms almost daily. In co-operation with Mrs. W. E. Gilliland put in the Christmas tree and decorations. Was chairman of flower showers for the City Federation of Mis- sions to Camp Logan. With a committee from Woodland Methodist Church made weekly visits to the base hospital at Camp Logan, taking each time flowers, magazines, jellies, ice cream and plenty of good cheer. Besides she went indivi- dually three afternoons each week to the Red Cross recreation rooms for convalescent boys at Logan and visited, played games with the boys, took them flowers and did any and everything to bring cheer and sunshine to the boys there. Often she did shopping for them in the city.
With the return of the boys from overseas she began work with the War Camp Community Service. For the first big reception given to the 132nd Field Artillery was made chair- man of decorations for the City Auditorium. This was the
ENTERTAINERS 167
time the Liberty Bell was made of roses given her from the gardens of the city. Was also chairman of decorations for the reception of the Rainbow Division. Her work as chairman of the Lemonade Committee for all the homecoming boys was truly wonderful. At every reception she had charge of the lemonade, besides serving on several other committees. Dur- ing these two months, with a committee, she squeezed three thousand five hundred lemons, boiled eight hundred pounds of sugar and thus made syrup for four hundred thirty-eight gal- lons of lemonade. This was a total, but made and served at four different times. She took an active part in Red Cross and all drives as a representative from her club — the XXVL
TREBLE CLEF CLUB
Mrs. Nelson Munger Honorary President
Mrs. Geo. W. Heinzelman _ President
Mrs. W. L. Love First Vice-President
Mrs. Geo. By ers Second \^ice- President
Mrs. Geo. A. Wilson Corresponding Secretary
Mrs. John Henry Freeman Recording Secretary
Miss Rubie Estes Treasurer
M rs . Tom C. Ro we Librarian
Mrs. W. A. Haley _ Assistant Librarian
Miss Gertie Rolle P)usiness Manager
Mr. Sam Swinford Club Accompanist
Mrs. R. L. Cox Director
As to war work the members of the Treble Clef Club (as a club) gave generously of their time and talents to further all phases of war work, participating in the community sings, sell- ing bonds and war stamps and buying bonds to the extent of $750. Aside from assisting constantly in Red Cross work indi- vidually, they contributed much toward the entertainment pro- vided for the various camps and aviation fields.
Among those who arranged and appeared on various pro- grams were : Misses Lorctta Bonner. Julia Frankel. Pearl Perkins. Gertie Rolle. Mesdames N. C. Munger, W. A. Grant, J. F. W^lch. F. E. Wilson. T. N. Asbury. Geo. Byers. Mr. Swinford, the club accompanist, rendered valuable assistance.
The Treble Clef Club now boasts three auxiliaries: The Evening Treble Clef Club, the Treble Clef Club of Livingston, Texas, and also the Treble Clef Club of Rosenberg.
Mrs. Carl Sony is director of the Livingston Club, while the Rosenberg Club is under the guidance of Mrs. W. Roeber.
168
ENTERTAINERS
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170
ENTERTAINERS
MRS. C. J. GIEZENDANNER
Mrs. Giezendanner is one of Houston's most charming entertainers ; her grace of mind and body cannot be ex- celled. She is always ready in times of need with a smile and a helping hand. When Camp Logan and El- lington Field were estab- lished here Mrs. Giezendan- ner was among the first to offer her valuable services in entertaining the soldiers. It is splendid work to knit and sew and clothe the outer man, it's good to give of our best to feed the inner man, but there are times in the soldier's life when he values spiritual uplift of far more importance than food or rai- ment. There are hours in every man's life when his
spirit needs nourishing, when his soul calls out for sympathy, for diversion from the monotony of discipline, and he craves something to lift him out of despondency.
Mrs. Giezendanner and her little troupe of entertainers have a wonderful faculty for making the soldier forget that he was away from home and loved ones. Men naturally love children and the grace and charm of Mrs. Giezendanner's little pupils, their wonderfully smiling faces and grace of manner, their airy movements and eagerness to be of service, seemed just the touch that was most needed to make them forget that they are lonely and home-sick. The children who went most with Mrs. Giezendanner are Francis Norton, Margaret Giezendan- ner, Elizabeth Thayer Giezendanner, Majorie Peterson, Fran- ces Spence, Bernice Bell, Dora McDearmon, Gloria Elaine Arnold, Wilma Nichols, Lillian Margaret Townsen, Marjorie Ellen Boyd, Dorothula Lorraine Callahan and Charles J. Gie- zendanner.
These young people never failed Mrs. Giezendanner when she called them, through rain and cold on the darkest nights, to all the different club houses, always finding several hundred men waiting for them eager to see their smiling faces.
ENTERTAINERS
171
The mothers and relatives of these entertainers also deserve their meed of praise, for they, too, braved the elements as chaperons. Great army trucks -came for them and some- times it was too crowded for comfort but no one thought of their own comfort ; their only desire was to help.
Other pupils of Mrs. Giezendanner who helped constantly but whose pictures we could not secure, are : Marcella Dono- van, Geraldine Bacheller. Marie Hennessey. Dorothy Helberg, Mary Lucile James, Genevieve Cerraccio, Evelyn Flick and Joyce O'Neil.
Mrs. Giezendanner is a graduate of Teachers School of Ex- pression. Indianapolis, and New Orleans College of Oratory. ■ Her daughter, ]\Iiss Margaret, is at present studying in New York, expecting to take her place among professionals in the near future.
MRS. DAPHNE PEABODY EDWARDS
Mrs. Daphne Peabody Edwards, wife of Richard W. Edwards, now located in Washington. D. C, mem- ber of Railway Commission under Mr. McAdoo. Mrs. Edwards was a very active worker, both in canteen Avork and Red Cross. She went as instructor in surgical dressings to many small towns at her own ex- pense and helped organize auxil- iaries for the Red Cross. She also helped with entertainments for sol- diers ; was also much interested in the Girls' Protective Association. She worked constantly until Mr. Edwards was called to Washington.
Mrs. Edwards was an active meml)er of the Woman's Club and Equal Suffrage Association while residing in Houston.
172
ENTERTAINERS
MRS. H. G. THAYER
Mrs. Thayer was chairman of the house committee of the Khaki Club and with her committee of splendid women some much needed work was accomplished. The organization was formed for the purpose of entertain- ing the soldiers of Ellington Field and Camp Logan. There was no feature of war work more necessary. Men of all classes must have some social environment, so many of Houston's best women joined the Khaki Club and gave much of their time in providing a pleasant, con- genial gathering place.
Mrs. Thayer had seventy-five ladies on her entertaining committee and they not only entertained at the Khaki Club but gave hundreds of home parties and went often to the camp with well prepared programs of music and readings. They went weekly to cheer the sick.
The invalid wards were rercipients of many flowers and deli- cacies from their hands.
Another phase of war work in which Mrs. Thayer was es- pecially interested was the Protective Bureau for Girls. This was a committee banded together to protect working girls and girls who were not surrounded by good home influences. They worked under the Fosdick War Commission. Miss Pearl Blough was director and Mrs. Max Taub was local chairman. Some of the prominent members were Miss Florence Sterling, Mrs. J. W. Neal, Mrs. E. C. Murry, Mrs. Thornwell Fay, Mrs. H. G. Thayer and Miss Martha Gano. These ladies deserve special credit for this work. It was very essential.
Mrs. Thayer is also a prominent member of the Woman's Club and the South End Study Club.
SCHOOLS
173
THE WAR ACTIVITIES OF THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF
HOUSTON.
p. W. Horn
All the war activities in which the jjublic schools ol Houston took part may be grouped under two heads :
(a) Those directly concerned with and contributing to the winning of the war.
(b) Those ordinary activities of normal times less closely concerned with the war, but none the less directly contributing to the winning of it.
In the first group may be enumerated the following things which took place in the Houston schools during the period of the war :
(1) The school children took charge of the work of obtain- ing signatures to the Food Pledge Cards sent out by the Food Administration of our Government, obtaining practically 100 per cent of the signatures sought. This work was done under the able leadership of Mr. E. A. Peden, Food Administrator for the State of Texas.
(2) Through the schools literature bearing on the subject of food conservation was sent to practically every family in the citv.
174 SCHOOLS
(3) School kitchens were opened during the regular school year and during the summer for demonstrations in canning and preserving, given under the auspices of the Food Adminis- tration.
(4) The school children of the city bought, through the schools. Liberty Bonds of the third issue to the amount of $195,500. Of all five issues, they bought nearly one million dollars' worth through the schools, and doubtless an even larger amount through other agencies.
(5) They bought Thrift Stamps in one particular month to the value of $27,006. Societies for the purchase of Thrift Stamps were organized at practically all of the school build- ings. Instruction in thrift was given to the children as a por- tion of their regular school work.
(6) During the last year of the war there was a school garden at each of thirty-eight different buildings, and there were 11,464 war gardens cultivated at home in whole or in part by public school children.
(7) There were 12,230 children in the schools enrolled as members of the Junior Red Cross. A more detailed statement of their work in this organization will be given later on in this discussion.
(8) The schools took an active part in helping to secure members for the Senior Red Cross, and in the drive for funds for this organization.
(9) There was a military organization of cadets at each of our high school buildings, and a troop of Boy Scouts at most of our buildings for elementary schools.
(10) Education and patriotism was stressed in all of our schools. Special attention was given to the singing of patri- otic songs, flag drills, to the flag salute, and the pledge to the flag.
(11) The schools observed Tag-the-Shovel-Day during the month of January, for the purpose of helping with the work of fuel conservation. On the afternoon of that day, after school, each child took one of the tags and fastened it to the family coal shovel, with the plea that one less shovel full of coal be used each day.
(12) Through the schools, several hundred boys were en- rolled in the United States Boys Working Reserve. Through the agency of the Boys Department of the local Y. M. C. A. many of these were placed in the shipyards', the wheat fields, the peach orchards, and the potato patches of the state for work during the summer vacation.
SCHOOLS 175
(13) There are 436 stars in the Service Flag of the Central High School, and there were at least that many boys of the students and alumnae of that school who served their country in Army, or Navy, or Aviation Service. A number of these boys gave their lives to their country. Herbert Dunlavey, who was in the high school in April, 1917, would have graduated in June of that year, but enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps. On July 2, 1918, the local papers announced that he had made the supreme sacrifice, having been killed in action somewhere in France. Captain John R. Burkett, of the class of 1910, was killed in the Argonne Forest on November 1, 1918, just ten days before the signing of the armistice. These are only two out of the number of those of the Houston High School boys who gave their lives for their country.
(14) The teachers in the city schools did practically all the work of compiling the occupational statistics of the registrants before the five exemption boards in the city and county.
(15) A number of teachers enlisted with the Four-Minute Speakers in the theatres of the city, and with the speakers in the rural school houses of the county on patriotic subjects.
(16) On Saturday afternoon, and on three nights of the week, the extension schools gave instruction to women desir- ing to learn to operate automobiles for government service.
(17) Under the provision of the Smith-Hughes Law, in- struction was given in vocational Home Economics, both to white women and to colored women.
(18) Under the provisions of the Smith-Hughes Law, in- struction was given in afternoon classes and in night classes to men of draft age who desired to study radio telegraphy, in order that they might better serve their country by that means in Army or Navy service. There were several hundred men enrolled in these classes. Of this number more than a hundred were graduated with a certificate, showing that they were able to meet the Government standard of sending and receiv- ing twenty words per minute by wireless telcgra])hv. Many of these men went into active service in this line of dutv in the Army, and acquitted themselves creditably.
The last named activity is probably the one which ren- dered more immediate service to the Government, and to the men concerned, than did any of the others enumerated. The e(|uipment needed was simple. It consisted of an ordinary Morse key, screwed down so that it would make the sound of buz/Jng, rather than that of clicking. It was operated by ordinary dry cells. Some of the instructors were retired tele- graph operators, and others were young men classed as ama- teurs in wireless telcgrajjhy. One of the best and most efficient
176 SCHOOLS
teachers was Mr. W. Peine, then the Business Representative of the Houston City School Board, who has since died. The Federal Vocational Board recognized the work done in the Houston schools and met half of the expense of the instruc- tion.
Of the other activities enumerated above, special mention should be given to the Junior Red Cross. For years the schools were talking about motivation. In other words, they were seeking for means by which they could enable each child to have some well marked motive for doing the work he was called upon to do. Everyone knows that a child or a grown person can do much better the thing he really wants to do than the thing he does not want to do. Our difficulty has been to get the child really to see the desirability or the necessity for performing the task assigned him in the school room. Only too frequently he has done these tasks under compulsion, or at least with only a vague sort of faith that they might at some time be of value to him.
The Junior Red Cross probably gives to the schools the best opportunity they ever had to assign to the child tasks in which he is really interested. Every American boy or girl was inter- ested in the winning of the war, in which his country was engaged. The desire to help was great. If we could only show him any task which he could perform which would help win the war, he was immediately interested.
The following tabulation will give an idea of some of the work accomplished in the Junior Red Cross of the Houston schools during the war ;
Surgical dressings 74,881
Triangular slings 170
Abdominal bandages 117
Shot bags ., 2,811
Hospital napkins 593
Gun wipes, yards 133
Substitute handkerchiefs 70
Knitted rugs 10
Black sateen pinafores for refugee children 95
Petticoats 110
Boys' shirts 15
Gingham dresses 18
Total finished articles 78,633
Tinfoil, pounds 50
School banners 30
Large service flag for high school
^___ SCHOOLS 177
Hand woven rugs for headquarters 12
Hand braided rugs _
Besides these, the boys made for cantonments and head- quarters checker-boards, chairs, tables, furniture, etc.
The Avork of the Junior Red Cross in our schools has been along three distinct lines, as follows :
(1) Constructive work outlined and included as a part of the regular school cvirriculum, especially in such subjects as sewing, cooking, gardening, manual training, etc.
(2) Constructive work voluntarily done by pupils outside of school hours in groups under proper supervision.
(3) Work not directly constructive, but educational in its nature. This may be accomplished by patriotic entertain- ments, by the reading of supplementary books dealing with Red Cross work and by instruction along lines having a direct connection with the war and war activities.
^^'ork under the first heading was done by all the children in the Houston schools below the high schools. Work under the second head was done largely by high school j)upils. An organi:zation known as Woman's Patriotic League rendered valuable assistance in this voluntary work. The Domestic Art rooms at the various high schools were kept open for girls in the High School at periods during the school day when they might not be otherwise busy, and also at i)cri()(ls after the regular school day.
The work of the schools in selling Thrift Stam])s and Lib- erty Bonds causes one to think of the distinguished preacher who said, "I have stopped thinking of my church as my field, and have learned to think of it as my force." In like manner the school people of today and the general public as well have learned to think of the public schools not merely as their field, but also as their force. The schools of Houston are proud of the fact that during the war they have not been in a position of merely being ministered unto. They carried their fair share of the load and contributed a real force to such movements as the purchase of Thrift Stamps, Liberty Bonds and the securing of Red Cross funds.
During the year the Superintendent was occasionally asked what effect these war activities have had upon the "regular" school work. His answer always consisted of two parts. He stated in the first place that he does not believe the conven- tional work of the schools has suffered one bit from these war activities. The boys and girls spell just as well as they ever did, if not a little better. They can probably spell some words this year which their ])redeccssors could not spell, as for
178 SCHOOLS
instance, "camouflage" or "barrage." The children read and write as well as they ever did, and know as much about arithmetic. It is altogether probable that high school boys and girls know fully as much about the i stems of third declension nouns in Latin, and as much about the binomial theorem in algebra as similar classes did before the war.
In the second place, however, it may just as positively be stated that even if it could be shown that there was some fall- ing off in the conventional lines of school work due to these war activities, it would nevertheless be true that the resulting gains would be far larger than the losses. It is more important that a child be a good American citizen than that he be a good speller. In the year 1918, patriotism is and ought to be the major subject in the curriculum of every American school. The value of much of the work done goes far beyond the im- mediate results obtained. For instance, it was worth some- thing to our government that our children should buy Liberty Bonds and Thrift Stamps, but it was worth a great deal more to the children. If the children of Houston during the war learned to save the nickels and the dimes which they formerly wasted in frivolous ways, the habit thus formed will be worth a great deal more to them than the money saved.
In conclusion, it may be stated that the work done in the Houston schools was simply an organized effort on the part of the American manhood and womanhood, and particularly on the part of the American boyhood and girlhood to do its full part in the great work of making the world safe for democ- racy. The boys and girls in the schools did their best to help. The teachers did their best to enable them to help. The par- ents were glad of the training that came to their children and particularly of the opportunity their children had for helpful- ness.
After all is said and done, one can not fail to say that the people connected with the Houston schools who made the greatest sacrifice were not those who stayed at home, nor even the ones who followed the call of the colors. The greatest sacrifice was not even that which was made by the boys who gave their lives for their country. The greatest sacrifice of all was made by the mothers, whose sons are represented by the gold stars on the service flag. They are the ones who sulf ered most and who deserve the highest honor.
SCPIOOLS 179
Patriotic League
The "Patriotic League" was one of the city's best organiza- tions during the war period for children and working women. Each school and Sunday School had its "Patriotic League." It was their duty to do anything and everything that savored of patriotism. They did Red Cross work, sold Liberty Bonds, Thrift Stamps, made "trench candles" and raised money for the cause in various ways. Some of the principal workers in the Patriotic League were Miss Agnese Carter and Mrs. Guy M. Bryan.
Their headquarters was the recreation hall of the Y. W. C. A. Women and girls who worked during the day met there at night to make surgical dressings and learn to knit
The Trench Candle
"What are trench candles?" asked a person of a little girl not long since. The child opened wide her big brown eyes and answered : "You surely didn't belong to our Patriotic League or you would know." The trench candle is a piece of paper two and one-half inches wide, rolled tight until it is one inch in diameter, then dipped in wax or paraffine imtil it is thoroughly soaked and when dry will stand upright. They will burn v^O miiuites. They were used by the soldiers in the trenches to warm their fingers or a cup of something to drink, l^ach sol- dier could carry two or three dozen without much inconve- nience. They were strung like l)cads for convenience and could l)c taken off as needed. They often saved the soldiers' fingers from freezing. The school children of Houston made several hundred thousand. "They were easy to make," said the child, "and we wanted to do something."
Mr. Horn. County Superintendent of Schools, said: "The trench candle does good in several ways. They not only bring some degree of comfort to the soldier Imt they inspire a desire for service in the child."
180 BOY SCOUTS
BOY SCOUTS
Scouting- was introduced in Houston in the year of 1900, with the organization of a troop of Scouts in Houston Heights, by Mr. David M. Duller, who, having boys of his own, looking around for some plan or program that would assist him in de- veloping his own boys into better men.
As work progressed with this troop, made up of a small number of Houston Heights boys, its value to the community was realized from the beginning.
Prof. F. M. Black, the principal of the Travis School in Woodland Heights ; Rev. T. Harbin, a minister of a local Pres- byterian Church, with several others, became interested and organized troops in their respective localities.
Mr. Harry Warner, at the instance of these gentlemen, pro- posed the organization of the Houston Local Council. This body to direct the work from a central headquarters, and from the organization of this council some several years ago, at which time Mr. W. A. Childress was elected president.
The movement has grown throughout the county, so now it numbers eight hundred scouts in thirty-four troops. There are over one hundred business men of Houston who are de- voting their time and energy voluntarily to the development of Houston's future citizens.
January, 1917, there were in Houston eleven active troops, and this organization entered all the war activities in which they could be of any service to their nation, and as the work progressed and more duties were assigned to the boys, the organization completed new troops in fields that were not yet covered.
It would be almost impossible to say in which or what ac- tivity, or way, the Scouts of Harris County did the best work toward winning the war — if it was in a Liberty Loan drive, a Red Cross, War Workers activity campaign, or any other of the many things that the boys did in taking their share and part.
They hung the many bill boards and posters that advertised the different campaigns. They acted as messengers, clerks in the headquarters of the different movements. They patrolled
BOY SCOUTS 181
the streets when large gatherings of our citizens were brought together for the different kinds of parades. They organized and led the parade of November 11, 1918.
While the War Mothers and those interested in the home- coming plans developed their work, there was always a Scout ready to do the many little things that assisted these commit- tees in giving our returning soldiers and sailors a setting wel- come.
War Garden Campaign.
Under the directions of the State chairman of the W'ar Gar- den Campaign, the Scouts of Houston secured five thousand pledges from our citizens that they would make a garden to help win the war.
This was by far the largest number of pledges signed by any comnuuu'ty in the State.
Food Pledge Campaign.
The Scouts of Harris County under the directions of J\fr. E. A. Peden. State Food Administrator, canvassed the entire city, from house to house, securing tlic pledges that our citi- zens would co-o])erate in tin- saving of all food possible.
This was one of the largest undertakings in which the Scouts participated, and it had been said that it would not have been possible to have so thoroughly covered our citv by any other agency.
This work was done voluntarily and cost the Government nothing, and yet carried their messages into every one of the thousands of homes here.
Liberty Loan Campaign.
During the four Liberty Loan drives that the Houston Scouts participated in, bonds were sold by this organization to the amount of $845,485.00. In this work of selling bonds most every Scout in the movement did credible work.
Scout William Lucy, a member of Troop No. 26. Mrs. H. R. Gates, Scoutmaster, headquarters at the Christ Episcopal Church, led both in the most of bonds sold, and in the amount secured in all the drives except the first.
The Houston Scouts did not particii)atc in the first drive,
182 BOY SCOUTS
as our city was not designated as one of the several experi- mental places for boys to sell bonds.
Scout Lucy, by his own work, sold over sixteen hundred indi- vidual bonds, by far leading the other six hundred boys en- gaged in the work.
Scout Lucy is also an Eagle Scout, he having successfully passed to the satisfaction of the merit badge faculty the re- quirements of twenty-one merit badges, which qualifies him to the highest rank a Scout can attain in the movement.
The United States Treasury Department rewarded each Scout in the United States, who sold ten bonds or more, to as many as ten individual persons with a Treasury Department medal. Two hundred and eighteen Scouts qualified for these rewards in Houston.
The War Saving Stamp Committee presented to each Scout whose sales of War Saving Stamps amounted to $250.00 to as many as twenty-five dififerent parties, a medal known as an Ace Medal.
Twenty-eight Scouts in Houston qualified for the "Ace Medal."
Mr. George W. Powell, the present executive in charge of Scouting in Houston and Harris County, entered the move- ment as an assistant Scoutmaster in 1913, under Prof. F. M. Black, then in charge of Troop No. 6. In 1914 Mr. Powell suc- ceeded Mr. Black as Scoutmaster of Troop No. 6, and during the following year took charge of Troop No. 3, whose head- quarters were Longfellow School, and on May 1, 1918, suc- ceeded Mr. Carl M. Roberts as Scout Executive, who had be- come Assistant Food Administrator under Mr. E. A. Peden.
On May 1, 1918, there were three hundred and eighteen Scouts in Houston, comprising eleven troops. There are now thirty-four troops with some eight hundred active members.
The organization boasts thirteen Eagle Scouts, the highest rank a boy can attain in this wonderful movement within its membership.
BUSINESS HOUSES
183
W. C. MUNN
When war was declared by the United States against the imperial government of Germany it became necessary that a campaign of educa- tion be started arousing the great body of American people to their patriotic duty and, therefore. W. C. Munn Company, as an institution, and its president, general manager and all of their host of co-workers entered enthusisatically into every branch of war work.
It was only necessary to suggest to W. C. Munn that it was his duty to go out on to the street corners and urge the young men of Houston
and Texas that it was their duty to volunteer in the Army, Navy and Marines. He made many speeches on the street corners of Houston, never having l)cen called day or night but what he gladly responded.
Under the able management of Mr. Jno. H. Hill, vice-presi- dent and general manager of the institution, their building was beautifully and patriotically decorated with the flags of the allies, the Stars and Stripes always occujjying the most promi- nent position.
This instituti(jn, many months before the United States was drawn into this horrible war, inaugurated a song service in their establishment and at many of these services there were addresses made by Mr. Munn. Mr. Hill and other j^atriotic members of the business family. During these meetings there were many flags presented to the military and marine com- panies organized in and about Houston when they answered the call of their government and went to the different training fields and camps.
At several of these meetings the president, \V. C. Munn, in the course of an address to the help and visitors at these morn- ing services, stated that if any young man was hesitating about joining the army, navy or marines on account of the fear that some of his loved ones might suflfer from want while he
18+
BUSINESS HOUSES
Munn Company Store
was gone that he could go with the full assurance that the firm of W, C. Munn Company would see to it that no member of his family would ever want for the necessaries of life, and if the government did not provide for them that W. C. Munn Company would.
He further stated that in case they went and returned that their positions would be open for them at as good or better salary than they were drawing when they left, and should they by chance lose an arm or a leg that they would be placed back into the service at as good salary as they were then drawing, and should they lose both arms and both legs that the firm of W. C. Munn Company would see that they or none of their loved ones ever suffered for anything. :
. As a result of these patriotic meetings and talks there were sixty-one young men who left the employ of the W. C. Munn Company, joining the different branches of the service. Many of them went across the seas, every one of them performing his duty gallantly and bravely as an American citizen, and so far as the firm knows they have been peculiarly blessed by not having yet reported the loss of one of these young men.
When it became necessary that the United States Govern-
BUSINESS HOUSES 185
ment be supplied with funds to see that its brave sons were clothed, fed and protected. The Alunn Co. worked as one man to see that every duty that fell upon them was performed well. Mr. Munn was called upon to make many four-minute speeches in the theatres and he was never called without an- swering. He was very active in the War Savings Stamp cam- paign and also upon the executive committee of Judge Chester Bryan, chairman of the Liberty Bond Committee of Harris County.
He was aided materially in this noble work by the efficient assistance and encouragement of Mr. Jno. H. Hill, vice-presi- dent and general manager of the W. C. Munn Company, who would take it upon himself to perform his and Mr. Munn's duty at the store in order to allow Mr. Munn to have more time to devote to these public duties, and through him radiated a patriotic spirit throughout the establishment of the W. C. Munn Company and the entire city of Houston. He procured for the firm one of the most attractive and beautiful sets of allied flags of the finest silk. These flags were a great credit to the institution as well as to the city of Houston and they were used not only by the hrm of W. C. Munn Company but in every patriotic movement by the Red Cross, Y. M. C. A. and every patriotic celebration during the war and since its close. Whenever there was a parade Mr. Jno. H. Hill with these flags was always at the front, and the morning that the greatest blessing was brought to the world by the signing of the armis- tice Mr. Hill closed the store after the morning service and with the entire store force was marching on the streets of Houston at fifteen minutes past eight o'clock, the entire force spending the day in celebrating the most joyous occasion the world has ever seen since the resurrection.
Of course, every loyal American citizen performed their full duties but the activities of the W. C. Munn Company and its loyal corps of workers from president and general manager down to the cash boy and porter always stood out prominent among other patriotic institutions of America.
They do not boast of these things but feel happy that they were able to do their duty.
186 BUSINESS HOUSES
W. C. Munn was born and raised in Texas. He is a member of the First Baptist Church and one of its staunchest sup- porters. He is much loved in social circles, his pleasant smile and hearty handshake are always appreciated by his friends. Notwithstanding he is a very busy man he always finds time to be of service to his friends and his community. The ladies of Houston are indebted to him for hundreds of favors in their club and patriotic work. If all men were like W. C. Munn this would be a pleasant place to live in.
J. H. Hill was born in Ireland and came to America as a young man, but he is not an Irishman, he is an American first, last and all the time.
MR. AND MRS. SIMEON SHAW
Mr. Shaw is a Methodist minister, served as a Y. M. C. A. minister, and was in charge of one of the Y buildings at Camp Logan.
His wife was a great help to him in his work. It has been truthfully said that she is one of the greatest entertainers in Houston. She is an artist in the truest sense of the word. Her drawings created a sensation on every hand and no one used their talents to greater advantage during the war than she. She gave of herself untiringly during the entire war period, both at Camp Logan, Ellington Field and in the city. One of her best pictures was "Keep the Home Fires Burning." She drew this for crowded houses in every Y building in the camp and the picture remained on the walls until the camp was destroyed. Another one of her drawings was the "Red Cross Nurse," and last but not least the "Soldier's Grave."
BUSINESS HOUSES
RICE HOTEL
187
The patriotism of the Rice Hotel is beyond question. During the war period the managers exerted them- selves in every possible way to be of service. It threw open its doors in a way that was truly hospitable. It be- came not only a pleasant stopping place for the weary traveler, but a homelike abiding place for the thou- sands who sought a cool, quiet restful home. The ge- nial manager, Mr. B. B. Morton, was at all times a pleasant, congenial host. During the entire war period every patriotic enterprise made its headquarters at the Rice Hotel. A table and com- fortable chairs were always provided for the committee work- ers. The recruiting agents, the bond sellers. Thrift Stamp sellers. Red Cross workers. Housewives' League workers, the Child Welfare workers, in fact, every organization doing patri- otic work, were made welcome at the Rice. Committees of both men and women could be seen constantly in the large comfortable parlors in conference.
The Rice had one of the best Red Cross Auxiliaries in exist- ence during the strenuous period of Red Cross activities. Mrs. N. E. Meador was auxiliary chairman and over one hundred ladies, guests of the Rice Hotel, helped with the work. It was a common thing to see Mrs. Meador hurrying in and out with arms full of Red Cross work. Mrs. Meador was also pur- chasing agent at Red Cross headquarters for eighteen months, often working from 9 a. m. until 6 p. m., never giving up until her health failed her.
There were eighty employes who went from the Rice Hotel to enter the service of the United States Army and Navy. They went with the full assurance that their places would be ready for them when they returned. The names of those entering the service are as follows :
Dr. E. W. Bertner, house physician ; Bob Artz, Nat Patella, Schrader, Stanley, Trotter, McLen, Wheat, Myers. Lee How- ard, Paul Frederick, Bauman, bellboys ; B. King, Jim Romeo,
188 BUSINESS HOUSES
G. Brodeaux, Mr. Plummer, clerks; Rush Moody, printer; Irvine and Big Boy, negroes from Turkish bath ; Louis O. La Garde, cashier; James W. Martin, clerk in auditor's office; Geo. S. King, assistant manager; William Taylor, killed in action in France ; Marion Gregory, store room ; Ralph Thomas, lunch room; T. S. Moodie, Perry Davis, clerks; Eddie McAles- ter, checker ; Bruce Carter, auditor's office ; Alfred Gaity, cook; Bill Rogers, barber; Alec Polaski, waiter; H. Dweck, room service waiter; Tom Ainsworth, waiter; S. Milaskawitz, waiter ; Cliff Moody, printer ; Henry Jackson, wine room ; John C. Cabrousche, Fred King, clerks ; Homer Mayes, Wade Reed, John Rogers, E. Wimberly, barber shop; Saleto, cook; Ray Meek, painter; Gilbert, store room; George Spillers, bar; F. Dominguez, lunch room ; Howard Garland, Le Blanc, musi- cian; Charles Carlo, waiter; Frank Samaritan, tailor; Victor Hugo, waiter ; Claude Harper, lunch room cook ; O. U. Hill, baker; E. Cavacoso, bus boy lunch room; Walter Thomas, bus boy lunch room ; J. Wynn, A. Melleiup, dishwashers ; Joe Var- gara, bus boy (dead) ; Bob Stray, Wallace Ernest, Massey, waiters; Max Hawkins, Lucas, Old Joe, barber shop; Johnnie Blend, Bog Newman, barber shop; Jesse Smith, waiter; C. L. Simmons, tailor; J. S. Collins, D. M. Pettitt, R. L. James, B. E. Verlander, engine room; N. E. Meador, Jr. (son of the presi- dent of Rice Hotel Co.) ; Geo. Black, Joe Gardber, Walter La- rengin, Frankie Tull, Geo. McKinnie (colored), Geo. Wheat- ley, Turkish bath ; Geo. Spillious, John Cabrunde, bar ; Calway Morris, porter; John Martinel, E. S. Limoni, J. J. Miller, en- gine room ; J. J. Smith, C. Aloisio, J. Mangold, waiters ; Alee Chustz, dining room; Albert A. Brown, I. B. Davis, front clerks; B. M. Stephens, N. T. Patillo, bellboys.
BUSINESS HOUSES 189
THE HOUSTON CHRONICLE
The Chronicle's most satisfactory war record is its service flag, with fifty-eight stars. Of these boys nearly all saw over- 'seas service/ Not a gold star appeared during the entire period of the war, but many came home wearing the insignia of wounds. Places were saved for all of them, and nearly all are now back on the job, a few having located in other lines, and one. Captain John W. Thomason, being still with the Marines.
Next in importance to its service flag is the Liberty Bond record made bv the Chronicle. Originating the plan of bonds at $1 down and $1 a week, the Chronicle sold over its counters about $1,500,000 worth of bonds. Payments are now being made on the fifth loan, floated last April. The plan gave the "little armv" its bonds without paying interest thereon, a $50 bond being' worth $52 by the time the final payment was made.
Through the Chronicle funds were raised for the purchase of regimental colors for the Houston regiment of volunteers of the National Guard. These colors were carried to France, and will remain in the archives of the regiment as an enduring token of the appreciation felt by Houston people for worthy and brave sons. Other funds were collected for the purchase of flags for Ellington Field. The post, garrison and weather flags are still displayed there. Funds for the subsistence of soldiers who came to Houston to enlist were raised through the Chronicle, and a large number of men who had quit other employment to serve their country were kc])t from want or hardship until absorbed into military units.
Red Cross, Salvation Army, United War Work, War Camj) Community Service, Library and Smileage campaigns, the Melting Pot. War Risk Insurance, Vocational Training, activi- ties of the Mothers of the Army and the Mothers of the Navy, the National, State and Local Councils of Defense, the Patri- otic Leagues and the very large numlier of organizations working for a common cause were all actively sponsored by the Chronicle. One member of the Chronicle staff served as dollar-a-y ear-man.
Perhaps the most jileasing service the Chronicle rendered during the war was the raising of a Christmas Fund for the boys "over there." This fund totaled more than 18.000 francs, and brought a great deal of joy to the Houston boys who served under General John A. Hulen.
The saddest feature of the Chronicle war work was the raising of a fund by which to commemorate the gold stars from Harris County. This fund was invested in W^ar Saving Securities, being handled under the auspices of the War Mothers. It is still intact, awaiting additional su1)scriptions in order to provide a suitable memorial.
190
BUSINESS HOUSES
WADDELL'S
The Housewives' League of Houston have many times ex- pressed their appreciation of the Waddell Housefurnishing Company's splendid co-operation during the war period. The League felt the best way they could serve their country was to open a war kitchen and give lessons in cooking food substi- tut;,es and teach the women of the city how to can their vege- tables and fruit. So they procured a large kitchen and asked the Waddell Company to furnish it for them. This they did gladly, giving of the best they had, including a beautiful kitchen cabinet, stove, tables, etc.
These things were used during the entire war period and when the Housewives held its yearly cooking school in the City Audtorium Waddell added more furniture, in fact, every- thing the women asked for during those days of toil and hard- ship were sent them. This made the Housewives' work much lighter, as convenient kitchen furniture always reduces toil and adds 50 per cent to efficiency.
BUSINESS HOUSES 191
The Waddell Company did their part in buying bonds and were agents for Thrift Stamps.
The following is a list of men in U. S. Army from Waddell's : W. N. Pearson, C. C. Adams, Sam Weinberg, D. B. Culpepper, Adolph Davis (colored), Fred Weiss, Dudley Bowers, Sam Waddle, Arthur Palmer, Julius Patotzka, Chas. Walters, Bar- ney B. Hood, Roy Rockwood. Albert Hudeck, Harry Morris.
Arthur Palmer was the only man killed. Two were badly gassed and will be unable to work indoors again.
Quite a number of the men have returned to work, others have changed to other positions since returning home.
J. J. SWEENEY JEWELRY CO.
The J. J. Sweeney Jewelry Co. is one of the most beautiful and up-to-date houses of its kind in the South. Its magnificent gems are only rivaled by the sterling worth of their employes. Each and every one proved themselves true Americans with a real and genuine loyalty to all their country's needs. The fol- lowing employes entered the service : Antone Havlik, Philip Kuhn, Edgar Wilton, H. A. Vollkee, Marvin Knowles, John Mellinger and Geo. W illianis. l^oth officers and employes as- sisted with every drive for funds. Every obligation was met cheerfully. They were called on to sacrifice metals, merchan- dise and men, but they endeavored to make their business meet the country's needs. They offered their manufacturing facili- ties to the Government to make any articles it could use. They repaired and overhauled ship chronometers and watches for the United vStatcs Shippins^; I'.iiard; they gladly conserved and avoided waste everywhere possible. The men and officers lo- cated at Ellington Field and Camp Logan were extended every courtesy. All the men who enlisted returned safely and their places awaited tlicni.
192
BUSINESS HOUSES
UNION NATIONAL BANK, HOUSTON, TEXAS
^^h]
11: 31:
ij>'^5 5;
Union Nat'l Bank Bldg.
Capital, $1,000,000.00. Resources, $17,000,000.00.
Officers
J. S. Rice, President T. C. Dunn, Vice-President Geo. Hamman, Vice-President W. T. Carter, Vice-President Abe M. Levy, Vice-President
C. G. Pillot, Vice-President
D. W. Cooley, Vice-President H. B. Finch, Cashier C; A. Dwyer, Asst. Cashier Hugh Wood, Asst. Cashier J. F. Fowler, Asst. Cashier
At the head of the Union National Bank serves in the capacity of President Mr. J. S. Rice, known throughout the State as Captain Rice. He is one of Houston's most esteemed citizens and enjoys the acquaintance and the friend- ship of a wide circle of friends through actual demonstration of conservative banking methods, commercial activity and so- cial interest. He is the past captain of ^ Houston's Light Guard and was heard to say during the recent conflict that he regretted exceedingly his inability for active service.
The Union National Bank is proud to list the following officers and personnel of the bank as representatives in the world war, which is evidence of true Americanism :
Mr. H. B. Finch, employed by bank, 9 years ; time of service, 2 years.
Mr. Robt. H. Dwyer, employed 4 years; time of service, 1 year 11 mo. J°® ^* ^^^^
Mr. F. W. Ilfrey, employed 7 years ; time of service, 1 year.
Mr. J. B. Millsapes, employed 9 years ; time of service, 1 year 5 months.
Mr. Jesse Encke, employed 3 years ; time of service, 1 year 5 months.
Mr. O. W. DeWitt, employed 6 years ; time of service, 7 mo.
BUSINESS HOUSES 193
Mr. B. R. Albertson, employed 9 years ; time of service, 1 yr. Mr. Albert Bowser, employed 4 years ; time of service, 1 year 8 months.
Mr. Clyde Cunningham, employed 5 years ; time of service, 1 year.
Mr. Vivian Davis, employed 1 year ; time of service 1 year 8 months.
Lieutenant H. B. Finch received a citation for bravery. He enlisted as a second lieutenant and through his activene'ss and loyalty to his duties was promoted to first lieutenant, which commission he held when retiring from the service. After his return to a civilian occupation he was elected to the position of cashier of this bank.
The Union National Bank has shown liberality through its subscription to all Liberty Loan drives, Red Cross and other worthy organizations established for the benefit and welfare of the men in the military service of the Government.
The Union National Bank always encouraged enlistments, willing to bear the burden of shortage in liclp and sacrifice on the part of the personnel.
Mr. D. W. Cooley, Vice-President, elected recently from cashiership, devoted practically all his time serving in many capacities and working tirelessly in the welfare of his country. He holds distinction as chairman of the Arbitration Committee of Ship Workers and secretary of the Draft Board. He exer- cised every interest in putting over many drives and helping the public in matters for their benefit and the Government.
The Union National Bank in addition to purchasing a large amount of Liberty Bonds, ofiFered the public free service in taking care of this paper and protecting them from loss through the safety of their large vaults.
194 THE HOME COMING OF OUR MEN
THE HOME COMING OF OUR MEN
As soon as the glad news was received that our soldiers were coming home Houston began to smile once more and when the first trains began to pull in our citizens went wild with joy. Words are inadequate to express the feeling of enthusiasm which permeated the brain as well as the hearts of our citizens. Men, women and children flocked to the train by the thou- sands. Carloads of flowers were brought to shower upon the soldiers, as each train came in. Every yard in the city was stripped of its flowers. Every woman and child in the city tried to bring flowers and cried if they had none to ofifer.
When the Rainbow Division came in fifty girls lined up on the street with baskets of petals representing every color of the rainbow, and showered them as they passed. As each train came in sandwiches and coffee were always served them by the Red Cross at the depot and later at the Auditorium, where the building was always beautifully decorated; they were served chicken (five thousand chickens being served one day), ice cream and cake, and lemonade galore.
All the musicians always turned out freely and cheered with patriotic music, the women and girls kissed the soldiers as they passed, whether they knew them or not. The faces of the by- standers represented a medley of expression for some cried, while others laughed for joy. This same program was carried out several times a week for several weeks until all were home. The Auditorium sheltered more patriotic meetings during those weeks than altogether before, and we hope there will never be need of such demonstrations again.
The best of everything was saved for the home coming soldier. The City Auditorium will probably never again be so profusely decorated or shelter so many patriotic people. Won- derful patriotic programs were always arranged and the very best speakers provided.
Mayor Amerman told the 360th of the happiness all experi- enced- in welcoming home again the men whose absence had "left an emptiness" that they only could fill and now that they had returned they would be expected to fill it.
"America needs her sons more than ever," said Mayor Amer- man, "and we expect as much or more from them as citizens, because of their experiences while fighting for freedom and justice in France."
Mr. Eagle, on behalf of the mothers, wives and relatives of the men of the 360th, then presented a pair of diamond cuff links to Colonel Howard C. Price, commanding officer of the 360th.
WORLD WAR CHRONOLOGY 195
A service flag with 1622 gold stars for the men of the 90th division who will not return from the battlefields of France, was presented by Bishop C. S. Ouin.
"In the midst of our happiness over the reunion with our loved ones, we must not and cannot forget those of the 90th who have not and will never again be with us here."
This flag was presented by the women of the 360th Home Coming Association in memory of those who made the su- preme sacrifice in their country's cause on the battlefields of France.
WORLD WAR CHRONOLOGY
The Cunard liner Lusitania was sunk May 7. 1915, with 114 Americans on board.
April 18, 1916, United States warned Germany that di])lo- matic relations would be severed unless the U-boat warfare were changed.
American merchant ships were ordered armed March 12, 1917.
A state of war was declared in existence between the laiited States of America and Germany April 6, 1917.
The first American troops reached France June 26, 1917.
American and German forces clashed for the first time No- vember 3, 1917.
United States declared war on Austria-Hungary December 7, 1917.
American forces occujjied first line trenches in France ]a.n- uary 31, 1918.
The German Kaiser retired November 4, 1918.
The armistice terms were signed bv German delegates on November 11, 1918.
The World War came to a formal end five years after the assassination of the Arcli Duke Francis Ferdinand and two years and two days after the first American troops landed in France.
196 LEAGUE OF NATIONS
THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS
The League of Nations is a union of the strongest civiHzed nations of the world formed at the conclusion of the World War. Its object is to promote the peace of the world by agree- ing not to resort to war, but to deal openly with each other and not by secret treaties, also to improve international law, and to co-operate on all matters of common interest. In this way the League of Nations hopes to reduce the liability of future wars, and any nation that wantonly makes war will be boycotted and otherwise penalized. It is mutually understood that these nations respect and protect each other's territorial integrity and educate their people to see the folly of war. The charter members of the League are United States of Amer- ica, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, British Empire, Canada, Aus- tralia, South Africa, New Zealand, India, China, Cuba, Czecho- slovakia, Ecuador, France, Greece, Guatemala, Haiti, Hedjaz, Honduras, Italy, Japan, Liberia, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Roumania, Serbia, Siam, Uruguay, and the following States which are invited to accede to the covenant: Argentine Republic, Chili, Colombia, Denmark, Netherlands, Norway, Paraguay, Persia, Salvador, Spain, Sweden, Switzer- land, Venezuela.
Any other nation can join the League if it agrees to the rule of the League and any of those already members may withdraw at any time. The League is advisory, co-operative and constructive, not coercive.
At a meeting in the Houston Auditorium Dr. Samuel Brooks, President of Baylor University, before an audience of 2000 people, declared that the League of Nations was the greatest document ever written since the Sermon on the Mount. At the close of Dr. Brooks' address the Honorable Thomas H. Ball arose and offered the following resolution :
"Be it resolved by the assembly, That we indorse the League of Nations, and the entrance of our country with other coun- tries into the League of Nations, and that we fully indorse all representations and commitments of every kind and character made by President Wilson at the peace conference.
"Further, That a copy hereof be sent to President Wilson and the Texas senators."
ARMISTICE DAY 197
ARMISTICE ANNIVERSARY November 11th, 1919.
Armistice day will be observed in Houston Tuesday with a celebration such as this city has never before witnessed or participated in.
^^'ith practically every store and lousiness house closed, with almost every organization and club arranging some sort of participation, with services of various kinds being held at dif- ferent places during the day, with a parade that promises to be unusually impressive and with a silent prayer and salute for and to honor the men of the world war Houston will pay a tribute to loyalt}' and patriotism that A\ill surpass anything ever attempted.
The entire citizenship of the city, the school children, all in one way or another will take part. Store windows will be decorated with flowers, flags will fly from every flagpole, streamers and bunting will adorn Houston buildings, and it is expected that the downtown streets will l)e crowded with the celebrants.
Festivities Start Early.
The day's exercises will begin with the Armistice day cele- bration at the W. C. Alunn company store at 8 :.^0 a. m. All doors to the store will be closed except the Cai)itol avenue door. Every one is invited to attend the exercises and all present will receive an Armistice day white flower to be worn in honor of our heroes who will never return.
-At these exercises the \\'. C. Alnnn company and Mr. Munn will receive a citation from Colonel J. 'J\ Russell, representing the war dejiartment. The exercises will be held on the ground floor o\ the building.
The principal speakers on the Munn ])rogram will be Dr. Jacobs and judge Bryan, and the music will mostly be fur- nished 1)\' the Munn Quartette.
From 11 a. m. until 5 p. m. all services in Houston will be under the direction of the .American IvCgion and the War Cam]) Comnumity Service.
At 11 o'clock all whistles in the city will blow, when the whistles die away 10 Hoy Scouts will blow tai)S. At this time every j)erson in the city is expected to ofi'er up a silent prayer. After this there will be a wonderful i)arade representing the Allied Nations. The ])arade v.ill be in charge of Judge Leon Lusk. The beautiful flagstaff erected on Main and McKinney
198 ARMISTICE DAY
Streets by the War Mothers will be decorated with flowers. Mrs. T. M. Ransom will be in charge of the decorations.
The following program has been arranged for flag pole services :
David M. Duller of the War Camp Community Service and the American Legion will preside over the exercises and will conduct the opening :
Invocation — Rabbi Henry Barnstein.
Community singing led by Glen C. Stables : (a) "Battle Hymn of the Republic;" (b) "Nearer My God to Thee."
Memorial address — Richard Fleming of the American Legion.
Prayer— Rev. M. M. Wolf.
Taps — Band member.
Following the flag pole memorial services the parade will march back up Main Street and down Texas Avenue to the city auditorium, where the Old Glory Memorial services will be held at 3 p. m., and the following program rendered :
L Music by the band.
2. Invocation by Rev. T. J. Windham.
3. Community singing led by Glenn C. Stables. (a) "America" ; (b) "There's a Long, Long Trail."
4. Prayer by Father Chataignon.
5. Community singing, "Onward Christian Soldiers."
6. Address by Mayor A. E. Amerman.
7. Solo, "Abide With Me," by Miss Mazie Parish.
8. Memorial address by J. A. Rossiter. '
9. Choir, "Lead Kindly Light," 200 voices.
10. Recitation, "Our Gold Stars," by W. Ray Scruggs.
11. Roll call. Old Glory service, in charge of Arthur B. Smith.
12. Community singing, "God Be With You Till We Meet Again."
13. Benediction by Rev. M. Clyde Howard.
14. One minute silent prayer.
15. Taps by Clarence L. Parker of the American Legion.
A large service flag made by the W. C. Munn company will be used in the roll call. J. A. Callahan will represent the army, William N. Karp the marines, P. J. Campbell the navy and Mary Olga Fisher the nurses. When the name of a dead hero and the branch of the service in which he served is called.
ARMISTICE DAY
199
the represenative for that branch will step forward and pin a gold star on the service flag.
The program at the city auditorium will complete the plans of the \\'2iv Camp Community Service and the American Legion. Following are the committees and the chairmen: Arrangements — Mrs. A. L. Nelms ; program — Murray B. Jones ; flag pole memorial — Mrs. T. M. Ransom ; flowers^ Mrs. L. D. Fletcher ; decoration— Mrs. C. K. Willbanks ; music — Glenn C. Stables ; band — Charles Lewis : seating — George Kepple.
JUDGE LEON LUSK
Who is in charge of the beautiful Patriotic Parade, on "Armistice Day", was raised in Houston and has always assisted with ])ul)lic af- fairs, especially during the war period. He has held his ])resent olTice four years and was clerk in this oftjce previous to his election. He graduated from high school and went from there to A. & M. College. Judge Lusk worked with all the different war activities, giv- ing constantly of his time and means with Liberty P>onds, Red Cross, Sav- ing Stamps, etc. His wife also takes great interest in ])ublic affairs. They have two children. Mary Ellen and Leon Elmer Lusk.
200 THE HOUSTON SHIP CHANNEL
THE HOUSTON SHIP CHANNEL.
By F. HAPPY DAY.
Houston is the natural and most available import and export gateway for this vast area, and the distribution of its outgoing and incoming commerce, being the gateway where eighteen railroads traversing this territory converge to meet the sea at one of the greatest land-locked harbors in the world.
The greatness of any city as a seaport depends on the extent and safety of its harbor, the converging of railroads, and the area and importance of the territory reached by the shortest rail-haul.
The Houston gateway possesses these requirements to a greater degree than any other seaport in the United States.
Situated at the head of deep water navigation, Houston en- joys and offers the same advantages to shippers, of water rates, and on account of such deep water connection with the ports of the world, Houston, as a shipping port, is 500 miles nearer the granaries of the West than the Atlantic ports, and 300 miles nearer than New Orleans, and 570 miles nearer than San Francisco. Further, the down-grade haul is an attraction, and the products of the Central West seeking an outlet to foreign trade, especially through the Panama Canal, must of necessity come through Houston and depart via the Houston Ship Channel. A comparison of distances from interior points to New York and to Plouston, by way of illustrating Houston's advantages in nearness of deep water to interior points and to points of origin, demonstrates the time and money saved in transporting goods for export to Houston, "the line of least re- sistance."
Houston is the greatest land-locked harbor of the world. Instead of being an outlet for the trade of the upper Brazos, the great system of railroads which have come to Houston have made it the gateway for the entire Trans-Mississippi Basin.
Each yearly turn of the wheel of progress in the future will more than equal a decade of the past.
The Houston of 1919 will be as insignificant by comparison in 1929, as was the Houston of 1899 in comparison with the Houston of today.
The initial and essential elements required of a city to make manufacturing profitable are water and rail transportation, ample banking facilities, abundant and cheap fuel, good labor conditions, marketing advantages, and the abundance and variety of raw materials, the possession of these elements to
THE HOUSTON SHIP CHANNEL 201
a greater extent, regulate the importance which a city may attain as a manufacturing center.
Houston possesses all of these advantages in a relative de- gree equal to anv citv in the United States, and m the variety and abundance of raw materials superior to any city m this country.
Not'onlv is Houston the gateway nearer than any other North American seaport to the Panama Canal, and the great and growing markets for American manufactured goods in South America and the Orient, but in addition the Port of Houston is in direct connection with over two thousand miles of inland waterways represented by the intercoastal canal system, which, with a few short gaps, gives to this city a direct water route for small craft from Corpus Christi to the Mississippi, the Ohio and their tributaries, or a total mileage of 5.672 miles.
This is an advantage not possessed by any other seaport in the world.
No seaport of the United States has such an abundant sup- ply of cheap fuel for manufacturers as has Houston.
The Houston Ship Channel, which is the natural site for the location of manufacturing plants, is but a few miles from the great producing oil fields, the product of which is rapidly being centered at tidewater upon the banks of the Ship Channel, giving to the manufacturer an inexhaustible supply of the cheapest and best fuel — crude petroleum.
The Houston Ship Channel offers one hundred miles of water front for manufacturing plants, where their products for export can be loaded on ocean-going vessels at their own wharves.
On May 24. 1919. the people of Harris County voted a l)()nd issue of one and one-half million dollars to contribute their share of the enlargement of the Channel as authorized by the last Congress, this new work to cost about $3,850,000. When this is completed, more than ten and one-half million dollars will have been spent on the actual construction of the Channel, and Congress will a])propriate about one-third of a million annually to maintain the depth and width authorized.
202
HISTORY OF TEXAS
TEXAS
O, great and glorious Texas,
Your hand must turn the page, Written with a pen of glory,
That will tell the future age. Of the ashes of the martyrs.
On San Antonio's street, And Goliad heroes murdered
In a morning fair and sweet.
You must carry down the future,
Through each eventful year, The record of brave Dawson,
And the fatal beans of Mier. You must tell the thrilling story,
Of that bloody Mexic fray, Where your sabres gleamed in glory
On the walls of Monterey.
Mrs. Mary Hunt Affleck
You must sing unto the ages
How great heroes bore your star. Ere our Southern flag was folded
At unjust demand of war. And your hand O greater Texas,
Must reach the weed grown plain. Of San Jacinto's battlefield.
And o'er the noble slain.
Spread out a civic beauty.
Displacing thistles tall, 'Til velvet grass and blossoms
Shall be our heroes' pall. It is your priceless duty.
Ruined Alamo to keep. And rear the marble tributes.
Where your mighty children sleep.
O'er Williamson at Wharton,
And De Zavala brave. At rest near San Jacinto,
In long neglected grave, O'er Smith asleep at Richmond,
Where woodland breezes blow — The last heroic messenger
From blood-washed Alamo.
HISTORY OF TEXAS 203
O'er Milam and o'er Bowie,
You must voice your mother grief, O'er Travis and o'er Crockett,
And o'er Long, your martyr chief ; And above that noble woman,
Who by the ice bound bay In vain awaited his return,
Through lonely night and day.
Contending with the savage,
Bereft of food and rest, While Azrael bore the baby
From her despairing breast. O, rear the white Carrara,
'Til men shall view afar The sacred grave of hero brave,
Who set your single star.
There was no grander Roman,
No braver son of Greece, No purer knight who went afar,
To find Truth's Golden Fleece. Than the renowned Virginian
Who by young Texas stood. And led her band of heroes grand,
As only Houston could.
O, great and greater Texas,
Your future days will bear On golden wings, the fairest things
Of earth, and sea, and air. The railway lights will sparkle,
\\'here toil your wagon trains. And streams of irrigation
Will ensilver all your plains.
Your mighty monarch. Cotton,
Will fill the vesseled bays, And sail throughout your kingdom.
On inland waterways. To the commerce of all nations,
You will give a welcome free, Where your wall of granite rises,
With its "thus far" to the sea.
204 HISTORY OF TEXAS
Where your cotton mills are humming
In a restless spindled host, And your rice and cane fields glisten,
All along the sunlit coast ; Where your lumber interests deepen,
In the oak trees' polished shine, And the cedar's spicy fragrance.
And the rich heart of the pine.
O, the flocks upon your hillsides.
And the cattle on each plain, And the waving golden billows.
Of your fields of ripened grain; And the ore upon your bosom
And the oil wells running free, From the Rio Grande's waters,
To your cities by the sea.
Are to you, O, Royal Texas,
Dear as jewels of the home. That the mother of the Grachii
Held in palace walls of Rome ; No king possesses country.
Bought with blood of braver ones. No queen of yore, on fairer shore.
E'er ruled more gallant sons.
The children of great heroes,
Who answered all your needs, And climbed your glory ladder.
On rounds of knightly deeds. Will guard you down the future
Through unknown ways afar, O, queen of mighty Statehood,
Crowned with your single star.
— Mary Hunt Affleck.
INDEX
Dedication 5
Women Eulogized 7
War :\Iothers 11
Houston's Gold Stars 25
Red Cross 31
Houston's Li1)rarian 61
Salvation Army 62
National League of Women's Service 65
Lutheran Brotherhood of America 72
W^ar Time Pastors of Houston Churches 75
Y. M. C. A 77
Y. W. C. A 77
Ofificers 79
Nurses 90
War Camp Connnunity Service ^H
Clubs and Organizations 105
Chamber of Commerce 151
Special Chairmen 15,^
Entertainers l'^'^
Schools 173
Roy Scouts 180
Business 1 louses 183
The Home Coming of Our Men 194
World War Chronology 1^5
The League of Nations 196
Armistice Day Anniversary 197
The Houston Shi]) Channel 200
Historv of Texas 202
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