Between 1914 and 1918, one of the largest, deadliest wars ravaged much of the world. As tens of millions became entangled in the conflict, men and women from the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) waged a parallel fight — a fight to comfort, heal and uphold the spirits of those impacted by the war. Ultimately, the YMCA deployed 25,926 men and women at home and abroad in the trenches, training camps, leave areas, and prisoner-of-war camps.

This exhibition explores these courageous actors and the significant aid they provided to the armies and civilians of both the Central and Allied Powers.

Curators: Ryan Bean (University of Minnesota Libraries), Dylan Mohr (University of Minnesota), Lena Radauer (Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg)

Exhibit Details

What:The YMCA and Relief for War Victims During WWI
When: March 23 through June 26, 2020
Where: Elmer L. Andersen Library, 1st Floor Main Gallery
Hours: Open during regular building hours at Elmer L. Andersen Library