On this date in 1919, the Santa Ana Register reported that the Red Cross in Westminster finished its last batch of sewing and, having fulfilled its quota until further need arose, decided to celebrate with a picnic at Anaheim Landing. A picnic dinner was spread on the tables, celebrants indulged in conversation, and the more adventuresome waded in the waters. All in all, forty-two people attended, including children and two honorary members, Meessrs. R. E. Larter and C. C. Murdy.
World War I had ended in November 1918, but volunteer relief efforts continued in 1919 to bring food, clothing, and medical supplies to a Europe devastated by four years of unimaginable warfare. Like many people across the United States and Canada, the forty-two Red Cross volunteers sewing in Westminster were a part of the monumental push alleviate the suffering and needs of people halfway across the world.
I hope they had a grand time in Anaheim Landing.
– Michael Dobkins
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