Stan Sipe, guest speaker, described genealogy and World War I when he spoke to Cardington Seniors during their July 28 meeting held at Seniors on Center, Mount Gilead.
Sipe, who is associated with the Mount Gilead Library Genealogy Department, reviewed the events surrounding the beginning of WW I, which began on April 6, 1917.
He said the war was precipitated by the assassination of the Archduke of Austria and the sinking of the unarmed ship, resulting in the death of 100 American citizens. The U.S. declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917.
He said Morrow County was primarily an agricultural area, but HPM employed 200 people in 1917 and manufactured military presses. Farmers were urged to produce as much as they could from the land.
At that time anyone born in Germany had to register as political enemy aliens. Morrow County had meatless day, shortened electric service and other sacrifices.
Sipe said 132 men were drafted from Morrow County. Those who had dependents were given an exemption button they were to wear at all times. Of the 132 draftees, half failed the physicals. The influenza outbreak in 1918 struck Morrow County hard. Political campaigns were stopped and because of this, soldiers were quarantined.
War bonds were sold to help with war efforts and Morrow County exceeded its $195,000 quota. He said the American Red Cross was founded in 1917 primarily to aid soldiers.
Regarding genealogy, Sipe reported records are available at the library annex. Families residing here on Feb. 24, 1848 are known as pioneer families. Ancestry study is available free of charge.
Sipe will be presenting a program on Oct. 28 related to “Murder and Mayhem,” in Morrow County.
Shirley Robinson, president, gave the devotions based on Psalms and a reading, “Color of God.”
Lunch was served by the Senior Center staff. Cookies were provided by Linda Ruehmrund and Barb Cowles.
The next meeting will be held Friday, Aug. 25 at the Seniors Center.
Shirley Robinson and Phyllis Jiles will provide cookies Reservations or cancelations can be made by calling Seniors on Center, 419-946-4191 by Aug. 24.
