Family History Writing Challenge Day 10

WWI Draft Registration

On 6 April 1917, the United States declared war on the German Empire. Up until this point, the country maintained only a small army. That all changed with the implementation of the Selective Services Act. Enacted in 1917, it drafted 2.8 million men into military service. All males aged 21-30 were required to register for military service. In 1917 and 1918, approximately 24 million men living in the United States completed a Draft Registration Card. Michael Crusham was no exception, registering at Local Board No. 9, 8th & Elberon on 5 June 1917. He described himself as being of medium height with blue eyes and black hair. As the sole provider for a wife and two minor children, he claimed and was granted an exemption from military service. On the registration card, Michael indicated that he was working as a printing pressman for Diem & Wing Paper Co. on Gilbert Avenue.

Diem & Wing Paper Co.

Cover of D& W Chats
Newsletter of Diem & Wing

Later that year, this notice appeared in the 22 October 1917 issue of the Cincinnati Enquirer newspaper. Even more perplexing is the fact that it also ran in the 5 November 1917 New Castle Herald paper in Pennsylvania. It could possibly be a political reference as both Michael and Mayme were active in the Democratic party, not as candidates but as campaign workers. Perhaps this is how Michael first became involved in politics? Another alternative is that it could be union-related, as there were several organizations that covered those working in the printing industry. The newspaper article below gives some insight into his political activities. He is listed as a Vice Chairmen at an event being held for Alvin V. Donahey in his successful run for governor of Ohio in 1922.

Donahey Campaign 1922

Crusham Family 1920

Meanwhile, back at the home on Rosemont Avenue Stella and Marie were about to have a Happy New Year in 1920 as they became big sisters. It had been nearly four years since the stillbirth of their sister, and it can be assumed that during those intervening years, Mayme had one or more pregnancies that did not have happy endings. But on 17 January 1920 Catherine was born at the house, joining 7 year old Marie and 5 year old Stella. In the photo above is Michael, Mayme (holding Catherine), Stella and Marie.

Things were looking up for both the United States and the Crusham family in 1920.