Leona and Ralph Van Dyke Oral History Interview

IdentifierNHF_WC_2015_Van Dyke_Leona_and

Date2015 June 9

Description Ralph Van Dyck and his wife Leona recall their childhood in Chestertown during World War II. Ralph vividly remembers the impact of events like Pearl Harbor, air raid drills at school, and his parents' work at a munitions plant. He shares stories of accidents and tragedies, including a banquet incident suspected of sabotage. Ralph discusses rationing, farm life, and the influx of women into the workforce during the war. He reflects on the community's response, from volunteer efforts to wartime precautions like blackout drills. Additionally, he mentions the presence of German prisoners of war who worked in the area, the importance of newspapers and radio broadcasts for war updates, and the celebration when soldiers returned home on furlough.

Material TypeDigital

LanguageEnglish

Duration1h 47m 16s

Preferred CitationLeona and Ralph Van Dyke, Interview, National Home Front Project, Washington College, Chestertown Maryland

ProvenanceInterview was recorded by Adam Goodheart, Michael Buckley, Lani Seikaly, Rachel Brown, Sarah Graff, Joseph Swit, Elijah McGuire-Berk, Abby Gordon, Emma Buchman, and Nick Coviello for the Starr Center of the American Experience National Homefront Project