NHF_WC_2015_Townshend_Ralph
2015 June 16
Rolf Townsend, born in Easton, Maryland, and raised primarily in Chestertown until 1952, fondly reminisces about his childhood there. He describes a carefree upbringing filled with freedom, walking to school alone and enjoying games with friends. The onset of World War II brought changes, with rationing and a focus on the war effort. Rolf became involved in collecting materials for explosives and served as an airplane spotter. He vividly recalls hearing about Pearl Harbor through newsreels at the local movie theater. Additionally, Rolf recounts the establishment of a dynamite plant in town, where he and other kids even assisted in assembling airplane starters. Despite rationing, Rolf and his peers enjoyed sailing and fishing in the nearby river, relishing life's simple pleasures during a tumultuous time. Chestertown remained vibrant with visits from notable figures like President Roosevelt and Truman and lively parades and patriotic events.
Digital
English
1h 8m 35s
Ralph Townshend, Interview, National Home Front Project, Washington College, Chestertown Maryland
Interview was recorded by Sarah Graff and Nick Coviello for the Starr Center of the American Experience National Homefront Project
C.V. Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience (Washington College)
Oral histories
oral histories (literary genre)
World War, 1939-1945--Social aspects--United States
Oral histories
oral histories (literary genre)
World War, 1939-1945--Social aspects--United States