YMCA Tent, Niagara Camp

The YMCA, staffed by both men and women, had a remarkable presence in camp with a huge tent and the use of a large Recreation Hall in town where Mass was celebrated on the weekends. Free live concerts and ‘moving picture shows’ were offered during the week. Here, the men were encouraged to write home with stationery and pens provided. Polish language newspapers and books were also freely circulated. The staff organized various sports and cultural activities and all proceeds from the canteen were directed to the men in camp. The newly formed YWCA established a “Blue Triangle” ‘Hostess House’ in town, providing comfortable lodging and gardens open to women visiting their loved ones stationed in camp. Image courtesy of the Polish Army Veterans Association of America Inc. Archives, New York.