King's Daughters Organization
Serving Seniors Since 1893

Blog

the Past, Present, & Future of KDO

25th Anniversary: WWI & Influenza

The King’s Daughters Organization did not celebrate the 25th anniversary, most likely due to World War I. Instead, a “war-time” luncheon was held consisting of sandwiches, salad, pickles, olives, cake and coffee for $.25 per person. Around 300 women of the 21 circles attended. 

During the luncheon, it was voted on to purchase a $300 liberty bond. This liberty bond raised funds for the Allied forces. 

Soon after, the local Red Cross was established and quickly put to work. The Red Cross and the “inmates”, as they were called at the Home, were quickly put to work knitting for our allied forces. 

The picture doesn’t show the actual “inmates” but a similar group of Knitters from the Edwards Place Auxiliary.  This article from the “The Honor Book of Sangamon County” that was published in 1919  details the knitters from the “Home”. For more info on this book click here: https://sangamoncountyhistory.org/wp/?p=2345

This week’s blog is in addition to last weeks blog regarding the Infantile Paralysis Clinic and KDO’s recognition of the year of 1919 as “Child Welfare Year”. 

Much occurred around the 25th anniversary of King’s Daughters including widespread epidemic, war and the effects of poverty. As the needs of the community increased, the women of KDO rose to the challenge and continued to serve the needy of Sangamon County. If not for these selfless women, we would not be celebrating the 125th anniversary of KDO. With thankful hearts, we celebrate the 125th anniversary by recognizing our history that has brought us to where we are today! 

Jennifer Sylvia