Women of Southwest Minnesota and the Great War - Anita Talsma Gaul
"The Women of Southwest Minnesota and the Great War" explores how the women of this region contributed to the war effort in expected and also unexpected ways. Women living in Southwest Minnesota overwhelmingly supported World War I by joining the Red Cross, participating in the US Food Administration food conservation campaign, or by serving as nurses. However, some women used the opportunity to challenge traditional gender roles and take jobs usually held by men such as working as field hands, as railroad depot agents, or forming Minnesota's only all-female Home Guard unit. Winning the "great war for democracy" was due, in no small part, to the efforts of America's women, and this includes the efforts put forth by the women living in Southwest Minnesota.
10 participated
Attendees will learn about the roles that women had played in WWI and will develop a deeper appreciation for the women who worked during that era. Anita will give everyone a new perspective on women during the war. Anecdotal responses will be collected.
Attendees enjoyed learning about how women challenged gender roles in the workplace, dressed differently, and "Knit their part". Overall attendees thoroughly enjoyed Anita's enthusiasm towards history.
Community Center, Lamberton News, Friends of the Library, Redwood Falls, Wabasso and Morgan Libraries