Manuscript Database
Creator/Title
Page, Percy Sherman, 1897-1918. Papers, 1899-1941. .33 cu. ft.
Call No.
Mss. A P132 1-6
Content
Letters from 1918-1919 are of primary importance because they illustrate Page's duty as a U.S. Marine during the war. Those from January-April 1918 recall his basic training at Paris Island, S.C. and Quantico, Va. and show his love of Army life. Those from May-June 1918 characterize his impressions of France, his gratitude towards the Red Cross and YMCA. his braggadocio at overcoming the "Huns," and his faith in surviving the war. Letters from July 1918-May 1919 from his fellow soldiers describe Page's death at Soissons, relate his last words, and tell about the impact of his death on his friends. Newspaper clippings, photographs, postcards, and certificates of appreciation also recall Page's tour of duty. Newspaper clippings. photographs, postcards, and a letter from the Gold Star Mothers' pilgrimage to France in 1930 to visit the graves of the war dead are also of interest. They describe the American Cemetery at Oise-Aisne, and the war memorial at the Foret de Compiegne, and the emotional impact of the trip upon the participants. Photographs of Page are in the Photographs and Prints Department. Page's medals and those from Daisy Page's trip to France as a Gold Star Mother are in the museum.
