Exhibit Opens At State Museum On 100th Anniversary Of America’s Entry Into World War I

World War I Private Melvin G. Williams of Sumner County in uniform

As part of the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of America’s entry into World War I on April 6, 1917, the State Museum is presenting a small selection of objects from its military collection, as a complement to the WWI exhibit in the War Memorial building. “The Yanks are Coming!” Tennesseans in World War I, which opens at the State Museum on April 6, reflects Tennessee’s role in the war that came to be known as the “Great War.”

The first mass war of the 20th century, World War I lasted four long years, from 1914 to 1918, with the United States entering the conflict on April 6, 1917. Tennessee supplied more than 61,000 men to the Selective Service and 19,000 volunteers. Six Tennesseans would receive the Medal of Honor for their service.

A selection of artifacts and reproductions from the State Museum’s World War I collection — posters, photographs, and other historical objects will be on view. There is no admission charge. Visitors may see the objects near the Visitors Desk on D Level of the museum.

For more information, click here.