Sandusky County Red Cross records

Collection – Multiple Containers

Identifier: MS-0048

Staff Only

Collection Overview

Abstract

The records of the Sandusky County Chapter, American Red Cross, span from 1917 to 1939. Included in the collection is general correspondence from the formation of the Chapter through 1939. This correspondence reflects the general internal functions of the Sandusky Chapter as well as its relationship with the National Red Cross and Veterans' Service organizations. Other materials found in the collection are reports, radio talk show transcripts, news clippings and printed Red Cross publications and posters. A 1921 survey of disabled men in Sandusky County gives names, addresses and the nature of their disability.

Dates

Creation: 1917-1939

Extent

3.68 Cubic Feet (8 legal size archive boxes)

Scope and Contents

The purpose and function of the Sandusky County Chapter, American Red Cross, is most clearly illustrated in the general correspondence. These files contain copies of letters from the Sandusky Chapter to various agencies and veterans relief organizations. A large majority of the correspondence is with the Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington, D.C. As the correspondence is complete for the years 1918 through 1939, much information can be obtained concerning the role of the Red Cross in the two decades following World War I.

Another important series of files are the case files. Many of the veteran's problems and concerns discussed in the general correspondence are seen in more detail in these files. Also, the semi-governmental status of the Red Cross following World War I is apparent.

Other materials found in the collection include membership forms, various reports to the Red Cross National Headquarters, news clippings, and Red Cross posters and pamphlets. None of these series are complete for the years which the entire collection spans. The War Service Reports cover the greatest number of years and consist of printed reports issued from Red Cross National Headquarters for the purpose of keeping the various Chapters updated with current information and handbook revisions.

The greatest research potential of this collection lies in the general correspondence and case files. These provide an in-depth view of the function of the Sandusky County Chapter following World War I. They illustrate the health problems and other concerns which plagued the veterans and their families. Furthermore, the role of the Red Cross from 1918 to 1939 can be compared to its role in today's society.

Biographical / Historical

The Sandusky County Chapter, American Red Cross, was organized under the name of the Fremont Chapter on March 30, 1917. The geographical limits of the chapter include all of Sandusky County, located in the northwestern part of Ohio. There are fifteen branches and one Auxiliary: Vickery, Clyde, Green Spring, Vandersall, Burgoon, Helena, Scott, Trinity, Rollersville, Gibsonburg, Woodville, Hessville, Lindsey, Fairdale, Ballville and Girton.

The first officers were prominent citizens within the county. They served until October 1917, when the first regular election was held.

Sandusky County Chapter first participated in a Red Cross War Fund Drive in June 1918, collecting $39,385.66 by May 1919. Membership drives also seem to have been successful. In the first six months of organization, they enrolled over 600 new members. The following year, over 4,300 new members enrolled. In its first active membership drive during the Christmas season of 1918, over 6,700 new members joined the organization.

Chapter and Branch workrooms shipped out many different types of supplies to the needy during the early years of the organization. Bandages, pajamas, robes, dresses, handkerchiefs, children's clothing, socks, mufflers and helmets went to civilians and enlisted men.

Like many Red Cross Chapters, Sandusky Chapter instituted a Home Service to provide help and support to families of servicemen and assist in the solution of personal problems and family difficulties. The Civilian Relief Department carried on similar services abroad. Besides the great amount of work done in the interest of the soldiers and sailors and their families, the department helped alleviate much of the distress during the influenza epidemic in the Fall of 1918, providing nurses and supplies.

Throughout the early years of the Sandusky County Red Cross, the staff was made up entirely of volunteer officials and workers. Because of the American National Red Cross semigovernmental status, this Chapter occupied an important part in the public welfare of the community and was looked upon for aid especially by Veterans of World War I.

Conditions Governing Access

Half of the collection consists of case files of individuals seeking the aid of the Sandusky County Red Cross. Because of the confidential nature of these records, the Center for Archival Collections' Policy on Confidential Materials must be followed in order to gain access.

Conditions Governing Use

Researchers using this collection assume full responsibility for conforming to the laws of libel, privacy, and copyright, and are responsible for securing permissions necessary for publication or reproduction.