Bridging the Past, Present, and Future
WAR BEGINS
The assassination of Francis Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914, launched the world into the greatest war it had ever seen. Less than three years later, the United States could no longer remain neutral in this conflict and declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917, and then on Austria-Hungary on December 7. By 1918, American troops were arriving in Europe by the tens of thousands.
Every town had young men who joined the military, and families from all walks of life sacrificed sons, fathers, and husbands. At the local level, businesses sold war bonds, women made supplies, and children raised money to support the troops.
Hinsdale was no different.
From the Home Guard to the Junior Jills, Hinsdaleans did their part to show their patriotism and aid in the national war effort.
HINSDALE WAS PROUD TO SEND ITS FINEST YOUNG MEN TO THE FRONT
Of the 378 from the Hinsdale and Fullersburg area who enlisted in the military, eleven lost their lives and 21 casualties sustained injuries.
All of them served with gallantry, honor, and distinction.
They’re gone - - -
some of them where the Hun filled the air with shrapnel,
some in the training camps of France, England and in the states;
on the land, on the water and in the air.
Wherever they fell,
say for them that they “played the game.”
~Memorial War Review, April 9, 1920
THE GREAT WAR GALVANIZED CITIZENS INTO ACTION
Hinsdaleans organized various groups to provide local protection, raise funds, stage patriotic displays, plant gardens, roll bandages, and more.
They proved that service at home was just as significant to winning the war as military might.
Red Cross Headdress
HONORING THE HEROS:
INDEPENDENCE DAY, 1919
The Village League of Hinsdale, dedicated to improving the material, social, and civic conditions of the village, had been organizing Independence Day festivities since 1907.
And on July 4, 1919, the town really had something to celebrate; the Great War had ended, and veterans were finally returning home.
The day was filled with a grand parade in the morning, ball games and athletic events in the afternoon, and a band concert and dancing in the evening.
July 4, 1919 Celebration Program
AN ARMISTICE WITH GERMANY ON NOVEMBER 11, 1918, ENDED THE WAR, AND HINSDALE SOON BEGAN EFFORTS TO HONOR THOSE WHO SERVED.
Returning veterans organized and quickly published a commemorative booklet entitled, "Memorial War Review".
Today, Memorial Hall stands as a reminder of those lost, and as a lasting testament to this community’s patriotic service.
