Chautauqua Women in World War I

Wartime Registration Desk at Chautauqua

Contributed by Margaret Haas

The renowned Chautauqua Institution was founded in 1874 by Lewis Miller, an Akron, OH, inventor and manufacturer; and John Heyl Vincent, a Methodist minister (later bishop). Vincent and Miller were very clear that their intent was educational, rather than revivalist, and the Chautauqua Institution was never affiliated with any one religious denomination although the sort of mild Protestantism that informed much of American culture also underpinned the Chautauqua Movement. Today, nearly every faith group in the U.S. has a chapel or building on the grounds of the New York Chautauqua.  Since its founding, the Institution has become a mecca for art, music, opera, theater, sports. education and religion during July and August. 

After the United States entered World War I, Chautauquans prepared for their first summer season of the war. The Institution's President Arthur Bestor asked "Has Chautauqua a part to play in the National crisis?" It did. Officers of the Institution soon joined in the manual of arms drill practicing with dummies. During the 1917 season, women were seen in an unprecedented role as they marched in formation on the grounds in uniforms of white blouses, white tennis shoes and khaki skirts, as they prepared themselves for national defense.

Throughout the Country during the war, women were leaving the confines of their homes, entering the work force once dominated by men. Such was happening at Chautauqua as women began serving in war related programs. Many of the Domination Houses were given over to the American Red Cross.

Military Tattoo, Chautauqua Style

These women were recognized in July 1918. The week beginning the 15th was "Women's Service Women Week." Women were billeted in tents in on the encampment grounds. In military tradition there day was comprised of Reveille at 6am, Military Calisthenics, Colors, Sick Call, Inspection and Classes in food conservation, first aid, dietetics, Telegraphy, surgical dressing, typewriting and Braille. Taps was at 10pm.

In this pastoral setting, Women of Chautauqua were caught up in the universal flood of patriotism which ran with the current the engulfed the Country.