Join us at the Museum on Main for a discussion with historian Colonel (CA) Fred Rutledge. This presentation, entitled The Doughboy Experience: Americans in the Great War, aims to honor those men and women who served in the World War by providing a glimpse into what they went through 100 years ago. Rutledge will discuss the lead-up to America’s declaration of war against Germany in April of 1917, the mobilization of military force, the battles in France and the return of troops in 1919. Rutledge will weave together historical events, stories, and WWI artifacts to create a narrative that explores in more detail what is was like, both physically and mentally, for these young men to enter military service, live in the trenches, and eventually return home after the Armistice took effect on November 11, 1918 at 11:00 am.

Fred Rutledge will also dedicate some of his discussion to exploring the role California and the Bay Area had on the World War I.

Colonel (CA) Fred Rutledge is a member of the California Military Heritage Command and is on the California World War One Centennial Committee.

Pre-registration is required as seats are extremely limited. Please call the museum at (925) 462-2766 to reserve your spot. At 8:00 pm, after the presentation, there will be a public reception with desserts, doughnuts in honor of the doughnut dollies, hot chocolate, and apple cider. Fred Rutledge will be available to answer questions throughout the reception.

This program is done in conjunction with the Museum on Main’s current exhibit “Over There and Over Here” which displays WWI artifacts and focuses on the effects WWI had on Pleasanton.

Join us for the 11th Annual Wines & Valentines Dinner. This special fundraising event features wines exquisitely paired with a delicious multi-course gourmet dinner!