Series IV: Sharpe Papers, 1917 - 1922
Scope and Contents
The collection consists of correspondence and one photograph primarily spanning 1917-1919, with one piece from 1922. Correspondence recollect Kenneth C. Sharpe’s activities in the sanitary squad of the Medical Department during World War I. They recall his work on sanitation related to trenches and hospitals, as well as how to properly dispose of the dead, maintain clean water, and waste disposal systems. Correspondence overseas come from England and France, as well as several forts in the United States where Sharpe did his training, including Fort Benjamin Harrison (Indiana), and Fort Deavens (Massachusetts). Photograph is black-and-white 4 x 5 (in) portrait of Kenneth C. Sharpe in army attire.
Dates
- Creation: 1917 - 1922
Creator
- From the Collection: Beckwith, Charles (Person)
- From the Collection: Burkin, John F. (Person)
Language of Materials
Collection is in English and Belgian French.
Conditions Governing Access
This collection is open to the public and must be used in the John M.K. Davis Reading Room of the Watkinson Library, Trinity College Library, Hartford, Connecticut. Researchers must register and agree to copyright and privacy laws when using this collection.
Biographical / Historical
Kenneth C. Sharpe enlisted in the medical department of the U.S. Army in 1917 where he began his training at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, Indiana. Thereafter, he was deployed to Fort Deavens, Massachusetts, where he worked with the U.S. Army to form a new plan regarding sanitation during trench warfare. In July 1918, Sharpe was sent overseas beginning with a short stay in England. He then proceeded to France where he served in the Mesves-Buley Hospital in Nevers. His work in the sanitation division of the Medical Department consisted of studying proper ways to test wells, improve sanitary conditions, and bury the dead of prevalent diseases such as pneumonia.
Extent
From the Collection: 1.66 Cubic Feet (7 flat manuscript boxes: two oversize, two 8 x 10, and two standard size. )
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically by date.
Repository Details
Part of the Watkinson Library - Archival Collections Repository
Trinity College Library
300 Summit St.
Hartford Connecticut 06106