On April 6, 1917, President Wilson declared war on Germany plunging the United States into the First World War. The “Washington on the Western Front” exhibit focuses on the UW's involvement in World War I as we approach the centennial of the US’ entry into the war.

The UW responded to the war through the formation of Base Hospital 50, a naval training camp, the Students Army Training Corps, and an ambulance unit. Of the over 4,000 students, alumni, staff and faculty from the University of Washington who served there were 58 casualties who are honored on two obelisks at the north entrance to campus and the original development of Memorial Way. 

Labor unrest, -- already sweeping the region -- slowed the pivotal production of the airplanes – and led to necessary concessions to keep the supply of spruce flowing. Activities on campus and the home front before, during and after the war are also highlighted. The exhibit culminates with the return of the victorious troops only to fight a new enemy, the Spanish Influenza Epidemic of 1918.

Photographs, diaries, ephemera, newspapers, and letters on display in Special Collections.