On this page we will look back at life in the city during the war years. Here we will provide the visitor with the stories making the news, what was happening in sports and entertainment, city politics, the social scene and the prominent people at the time. So, check back often for new editions. To share your family or neighborhood stories, please email PhillyWWIyears@gmail.com
TODAY IN PHILADELPHIA – MONDAY, MAY 28, 1917
There will be heavy rain and thunderstorms today and this evening. The rain will clear overnight. Today’s high will only reach 57° with the low near 51°. Word has been received from England that Philadelphia’s first contribution to the war, Base Hospital No. 10 of the Pennsylvania Hospital, has reached Europe safe and sound. In business news, The Mayor has approved a contract for the completion of the South Broad Street plaza between Oregon Avenue and Bigler Street. The contract, worth $112,000.00, was awarded to a company owned by State Senator Edwin Vare.
Any man who enlists in the National Guard tomorrow will not only be doing his part for his Country but will also receive a special thank you. A kiss from 24 girls! That encouragement was announced today by Lieutenant Colonel Millard Brown of the 1st Regiment. Twenty four girls have volunteered to kiss each man who joins up. That’s 24 kisses boys. The event will be held tomorrow at 4:00pm at City Hall Plaza. There will also be a band concert.
In entertainment this week, the Municipal Band will be performing tonight at Gorgas Park, Ridge Avenue & Hermitage Street. Tomorrow evening the Band will be at 48th & Brown Streets. On Wednesday night it will perform at Belfield Playground, 21st & Nedro Streets. On Thursday night at Jefferson Square, 4th & Washington Avenue, Friday night at Fitler Square, 23rd & Pine and Saturday evening at Union Square, 5th & Buttonwood Streets.
In national news, history was made in Congress today as Miss Jeannette Rankin, the first woman to serve in the House of Representatives gave her maiden speech on the floor of the House. When Miss Rankin rose she was recognized by the Speaker as “the lady from Montana”. She spoke haltingly at first, perhaps a little nervously, but then delivered an eloquent 5 minute speech on an amendment to the food conservation bill. Her remarks were met with an enthusiastic ovation from the members of Congress and the amendment was immediately passed.
Miss Jeannette Rankin
In sports, the Phillies begin a road trip today that will keep them away from home for the next 3 weeks. They start in New York with a doubleheader against the Giants then they are off to Pittsburgh, Chicago, St. Louis and Cincinnati. The Athletics have returned from their trip west and will open with a doubleheader against the Yankees tomorrow.
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