Purdue Libraries hosting IHS exhibition examining Indiana's centennial

Hicks Undergraduate Library is hosting an Indiana Historical Society exhibition, “The Hoosier Centennial: A Look Back at the 1916 Celebration,” through Jan. 31.

The exhibition was part of the society’s 1991 effort to commemorate the 175th anniversary of Hoosier statehood. Indiana became the 19th state on Dec. 11, 1816. The statewide centennial celebration in 1916 has drawn continued attention because of its lasting effect on Indiana, including the establishment of the first state parks, the production of lavish historical pageants and steps toward an improved road system.

In addition to the exhibition, the library is hosting the presentation “Battery B on the North Shore of Hell” by David Hovde, associate professor of library science:

"The Purdue University Military Science program from 1874 to World War I will be discussed, with an emphasis on Battery B. This unit was the only Purdue military unit that was actually called into service by the president of the United States. In 1916 President Wilson, in response to incursions by Mexican guerrilla bands into New Mexico and Texas, called up National Guard units throughout the country to guard the border between Mexico and the United States. Battery B was a unit within the Indiana National Guard. How and why it came to be in the National Guard is an intriguing story."

The presentation will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 20 in Hicks Undergraduate Library, Room G980D. Light refreshments will be served. The exhibition and presentation are free and open to the public. 

IHS, a private, nonprofit membership organization, maintains the nation’s premier research library and archives on the history of Indiana and the Old Northwest. It also presents a unique set of visitor experiences called the Indiana Experience.

IHS provides support and assistance to local museums and historical groups; publishes books and periodicals; sponsors teacher workshops; produces and hosts art exhibitions, museum theater and outside performance groups; and provides youth, adult and family programs. For more information, visit www.indianahistory.org. 

Source: Ann O'Donnell, 765-496-1498, atodonne@purdue.edu