WWII Camp Ellis: Homefronts & POWs - Presented by Parlin-Ingersoll Public Library

Parlin-Ingersoll Public Library will be presenting WWII Camp Ellis: Homefronts & POWs by author Mary C. Kerr on Thursday, March 12, 2020, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. in the Library Program Room. Kerr will describe the camp, life on the home front, and the German POWs who worked not only at Camp Ellis but in several other central Illinois communities.
Kerr began her writing on this topic with a book, “Washington’s Homefront and the POWs,” in 2016. When its third printing sold out, she expanded the 2nd edition to include Camp Ellis and satellite camps beyond Washington, including Eureka, Galesburg, and other Illinois towns. POWs worked in a variety of jobs such as at pea vineries, Libby canning plants, and at the Mayo General Hospital in Galesburg.
Her historical research has greatly expanded our knowledge of the time period. Her grandparents, Carle and Lida Crabb, published The McDonough Times, which reported small-town happenings about victory gardens, Camp Ellis news, and other daily happenings. Kerr also includes information from Jakob Cramer, who at 17 years of age was a POW at Camp Washington. As her contacts expanded, so did the story.
Her book, which includes many colorful photographs, will be available for purchase and autographing after her presentation. The cost is $20.
While currently living in Washington, Illinois, many will remember Mary Kerr as the former principal at Westview Elementary School in Canton. In 2013 Mary along with her granddaughter, Catherine M. Kerr, co-authored Mary Lincoln’s Journey, a previous library presentation and book signing.
Please join us for an informative look back at our local history.