Remembering World War I: Homecoming and Memorials

On November 11, 1918, an armistice was signed that officially ended the First World War. New Yorkers had played an important part in the monumental world event that had just occurred. As soon as the troops began coming home, New Yorkers joined the rest of the world in memorializing fallen soldiers. Events honoring American veterans were held beginning in 1918, and continued throughout the 1920s. These events ranged from victory celebrations to solemn memorials, and they were always patriotic in tenor.

Along with official monuments and memorial celebrations, individuals and families across the state grieved their fallen relatives. The New York State Archives has an extensive collection of pamphlets, photos, death certificates, and other documentation dating from directly after...