Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Bag, Ditty |
Catalog Number |
2023.19.5 |
Date |
ca. 1919 |
Material(s) |
Linen/Metal |
Dimensions |
H-12 W-10 inches |
Description |
A linen drawstring bag with a cloth label at center. The faded text on the label reads "Lt. E. E. Pfanstiel / Co C 335th INF. / A.E.F." Below the label a faded red cross is stitched onto the bag. A pinback button with a red cross on a white background is pinned to the top of the bag. |
Notes |
This World War I Red Cross kit bag belonged to Everett Earl Pfanstiel (1894-1980). Born in Kenton County, Kentucky, Everett attended Transylvania University in Lexington. His draft card lists his employment as a teacher with the Brookville, Kentucky, Board of Education. Everett reported for duty at Camp Zachary Taylor in the Fall of 1917. Everett departed for Europe with Company C, 335th Infantry, 84th Division in September 1918. The text on his garment bag (2023.19.1) indicates his rank as lieutenant, but the ship manifest lists his rank as second lieutenant. The 84th Division deployed to France to serve as a training formation for replacements which would be sent to the Western Front. Ultimately, the division never saw combat. While stationed in France, Everett became ill with influenza, making him one of many during the 1918 influenza pandemic. This bag was issued by the Red Cross to hold his personal belongings while being treated. He transferred from the 84th Division to the 79th Division, probably due to his illness. This change is noted with the written text on his garment bag and the insignia patch on this uniform (2023.19.2). Everett returned to the United States in May 1919 as a Second Lieutenant in the Headquarters Company, 313th Infantry, 79th Division. There is no indication he saw combat during his service. He was discharged in June 1919. Everett went on to serve as superintendent at Carlisle City Schools in Nicholas County and as a Bracken County judge. Donated by Everett's son, Everett "Earl" Pfanstiel. An archival collection accompanies this donation. |
Collection |
Earl Pfanstiel Collection |
Event |
The 1918 Influenza Pandemic |
People |
Pfanstiel, Everett Earl, 1894-1980 |
Subjects |
Diseases Epidemics Influenza Military Military officers Military personnel Soldiers World War I |
Search Terms |
Daviess County (Ky.) Red Cross The 1918 Influenza Pandemic U.S. Army US Army World War I World War One World War, 1914-1918 |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |