War for children during the first half of the 1900s meant days-old news, weeks-old mail and daily changes in the way they lived. There were few phones, no television, no world wide web. "The first priority in the U.S. was to feed, arm and clothe the soldiers," said county Historian Emily Simms. "Some foods and items that we regularly imported from other countries, were suddenly not available, like sugar, coffee, tea, rubber for tires and gasoline. Factories that made clothes, shoes and cars began making items needed for the war so those items were nearly impossible to buy. Housewives had to learn to cook meals with fewer ingredients and worked in factories. "Children planted gardens and saved what they could to support the soldiers and sailors, many of whom were their fathers, brothers and neighbors." Exhibits will show the history of World War I – which marks the 100th anniversary of the war-ending Treaty of Versailles Nov. 11 – and World War II, Simms said. "So many of the people who lived here during the two world wars are gone now," Simms said. "We hope these exhibits and stories touch the imaginations of all the children, and all the adults, who visit the exhibits next week." The free week-long celebration will be capped off with a 3 p.m. presentation Oct. 7 at the VFW by Kirk House, "Over Here: The Great War In Our Area," followed by a "USO"-styled concert at Haverling High School.
** Steuben County History Week
• VFW, State Route 54, Bath
• School tours (by appointment): 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Friday
• Open to the public: 2 – 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday
• "Over Here: The Great War In Our Area" presentation: 3 p.m. Sunday
