The 140th Anniversary of the American Red Cross

American Red Cross (May 21, 1881-2021)

In honor of the 140^th anniversary of the founding of the American Red Cross, the staff would like to share some resources on Clara Barton and the Red Cross.

The American Red Cross was founded on May 21, 1881 by Clara Barton, who served as a nurse in the American Civil War and then went to Europe to provide nursing services in the Franco-Prussian War (July 19, 1870 to January 28, 1871). The American Red Cross has a dual mission of providing relief in disasters (like Hurricane Katrina) and medical aid to soldiers during war time.  During the Spanish-American War (1889), the American Red Cross provided aid to wounded soldiers in Cuba and the Philippines.  Ever since, American soldiers and sailors have looked for medical aid and support from the Red Cross in combat zones.

Today, many Americans recognize the Red Cross for its blood drives and first aid training.  With locations across the country, the Red Cross helps people prepare for emergencies and natural disasters.  To learn more about the Red Cross in Illinois, visit them here: https://www.redcross.org/local/illinois.html

Below please find links to Museum & Library resources to learn more about the history, sacrifice and service of the volunteers and the organization.