Bells of Peace - A Celebration After World War I

On November 11, 1918 “engines whistled, church bells rang, the fire bell clanged, guns and pistols were fired, even firecrackers appeared from somewhere and added to the general din. There were tea bells, dinner bells, cow bells, sheep bells, tin horns, alarm clocks and—Voices, anything and everything that could make a noise” all on Main St. in Brevard. 

Hundreds of people gathered in the square and as far as St. Philip’s Rectory. Following a scripture reading and prayer by Rev. John C. Seagle, Mayor Breese gave a speech championing the victory ending the Great War.  D.L. English spoke in support of the recent election proclaiming that the Republican and Democratic parties were united in celebrating the victory.  Mrs. Silversteen, Chair of the National League of Women’s Service spoke of being overjoyed to know no more American soldiers would be killed.  The crowd joined in singing “America the Beautiful” and “The Star Spangled Banner” before a closing benediction by Rev. Manley.

This description of Brevard’s celebration of the declaration of peace was found on the front page of the November 14, 1918 issue of the Brevard News.  However, other front page articles call for continued support of the United War Work drive and the efforts of the Victory Girls led by Mary Jane King in raising funds. It was also announced that five local men had left for Camp Green in Charlotte.  C.M. Doyle, proprietor of Brevard Hardware, continued to ask for pictures of Transylvania soldiers. Doyle had over 300 photographs of “our heroes” on display in his store window.

These two photographs were taken at Underhill,
the home of T.L. and Dovie Ann Deaver Gash
on November 11, 1918.

There is a small display of reference books on North Carolina’s role in World War I in the Local History Room at the Transylvania County Library. Files containing materials related to Transylvania County’s role in the Great War are available in the Local History Room as well. Some of the books are also in the circulating collection for library card holders to be check out.

Photographs and information for this column are provided by the Rowell Bosse North Carolina Room, Transylvania County Library. Visit the NC Room during regular library hours (Monday-Friday) to learn more about our history and see additional photographs. For more information, comments, or suggestions contact Marcy at marcy.thompson@transylvaniacounty.org or 828-884-1820.