'Turnback Tuesday' features founding of American Red Cross

Turnback Tuesday celebrates the 140th anniversary of the founding of the Red Cross, May 21, 1881 by Clara Barton, who led it for 23 years. 

During WWI in 1914, there were 107 chapters and by 1918 there were 3,864. 

The Red Cross recruited nurses to help serve the military and recruited addition nurses to combat the flu epidemic of 1918. Again they helped during WWII with supplies and packages for American and allied prisoners. 

The Red Cross also initiated a national blood drive program. They continue their commitment to supply relief, education, and support to this day. This song (above) was dedicated to the American Red Cross during WWI.

Thanks goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting history each week!