THIS DAY IN 1918 IN THERECORD

Friday, March 22, 1918. “Conditions in northern France and Belgium are appalling,” the American Red Cross tells Americans as Trojans organize a clothing drive for the German- occupied territory. Local organizers hope to fill two train cars with clothing for “destitute” Belgians and French, starting next Wednesday. An organizational meeting today calls on local clergy to “impress upon their congregations the need of co- operation,” The Record reports. “The movement was started because of the desperate need of the civilian prisoners of German military power,” our reporter notes. Germany occupied the region at the start of the world war, back in the summer of 1914. The occupiers now appear to be systematically stripping the territory of resources. “The German government has requisitioned all wool mattresses,” the Red Cross claims, “Poplars, elms and other trees have been removed from the gardens. No more milk is to be had except for the very young. Boots and men’s clothes have been seized by the military authorities wherever found in shops….The Germans have allowed individuals to retain only two worn suits and two pairs of shoes.” The International Red Cross has the means to provide aid across enemy lines. “Every effort is to be made to protect the people who will receive garments,” our reporter writes, “and the opinion is expressed that the pub- lic should realize the need of cleaning all garments contributed.”

High School Basketball

Troy High and Lansingburgh High play a series of games next week for basketball bragging rights in the Collar City. Both teams will enter the fray with momentum after tonight’s contests.

Troy faces a tough opponent in Scotia High School. Their starting five is “the heaviest seen on the local court this season,” a Record sportswriter reports.

“The game was clean and interesting from start to finish. The Troy boys were outweighed man for man, but they played a good game and overcame this handicap…. At times the Scotia quintet worked its pass work in good shape and forced the ball down the floor, but could not find the basket. Both teams played ragged at times, but timely baskets by the Troy team kept them in the lead.”

Despite the Scotia challenge, Troy never trails tonight. They lead 13-9 at halftime, but Scotia closes to within one point before a timely free throw and the departure due to fouls of Scotia’s starting center give Troy some breathing room. The home team finally ekes out a 20-18 victory.

Lansingburgh should feel more confident after their 48-8 mauling of Bennington High, the Vermont scholastic champions. They’ll host Troy next Monday in a game that “will be for blood.”

- Kevin Gilbert