The Enemy, Thirst
The camp was a boon to Waco’s economy and by most accounts, a positive impact on the community at large. After Camp MacArthur closed in 1919, many veterans returned to central Texas. Growing up in Waco, I remember my grandfather mentioning the camp often.
But there is another side to this history; what life was like for the ordinary soldier. The first wave of recruits to arrive at Camp MacArthur were from the northern states of Michigan and Wisconsin; a culture shock to say the least. Texas accents, heat, grits and greens, and perhaps a lingering resentment toward “Yankees” and the Civil War. Add to this, routine, boredom, and homesickness and it can drain even the heartiest soldier. Comradery, letters from home, and off-duty distractions can lessen the impact, but nothing works like humor for a good cause.
This letter is unique to official military correspondence. It’s a lighthearted call to action and patriotism. I think it says a lot about the relationship between the camp and the Waco community. There’s no evidence the demand was satisfied but the letter is an example of how things can get done with a little creativity and humor.
On this Veterans Day, as we honor those who defended our Constitution and its ideals, let’s also take the time to celebrate the humanity in all of us.
I think I’ll have a Dr Pepper and celebrate.
Waco History: https://wacohistory.org/items/show/48
Texas State Historical Assn. (TSHA): https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/camp-macarthur
Gentlemen:
We trust you will take this matter up at once and give it the careful consideration that is due so an important issue, and then let us hear that you will aid in defeating the Enemy Thirst and conquer these long hot drill days.
April 19th 1918.
Respectfully,
55th Infantry Exchange,
C H Kells
Exchange Officer
Letter to the Coca Cola Bottling Works in Waco, Texas; 4/19/1918. Records of the U.S. Food Administration, Record Group 4; National Archives at Fort Worth, TX.
Why Historify?
I discovered the power of story as a history teacher, and the singular privilege of working at a Texas state archive filled with letters penned by people whose thoughts, attitudes, and experiences reflect the times in which they lived.
Their stories are the heartbeat of history that give life to memory, and these letters are everywhere, in private collections, libraries, archives, and museums across the country, waiting to be discovered by an interested public.
This simple website was created as a free, uncomplicated, and time-saving introduction to the richness and value of historical sources.
Please join me as we study the past through the words of those who lived it, one life at a time, and thank you for being here.
Buck