December 16, 1941

Detroit News Quilt History Project; Michigan State University Museum; Susan Salser

Detroit, Michigan, United States

A Needles for Defense column.

Needles for Defense
An army of workers thousands strong has already responded to the Call to work sounded by the Detroit News Needles for Defense Club.

Many just signed the coupon and mailed it as requested. Others sent expressions of gratitude that the News had provided this easy way to work for freedom or works of enthusiasm for the plan.

Here are only a few of the messages received.

"There must be lots of sewing work that even a plain seamstress like myself could do, and I shall be happy to do all I possibly can."
Mrs. R. F. Vera Bertand.

"Your Needles for Defense Club seems a splendid way in which we house-wives can do our bit."
Mrs. R.F. Rollie Stamper

"I work days, but have a sewing machine and am sure there will be lots of work I could do evenings at home - and am so anxious to do this."
Lola Place

"I have a car at my disposal and I will be very happy to contribute three or four hours each week for the delivery of materials."
Mrs. N> George Bashara.

(We have a definite need for this service and are glad to have this offer of help. We are listing your name in our motor corps group.)

"I would like to enroll for knitting for our own brave soldiers in this war because I know what war is. I was in it for four years in Belgium - a few hours away from the fighting."
Mrs. Julia De Witte.

(Knitting assignments will be announced Wednesday, Mrs. De W. - Call for yarn Thursday or after.)

"Please enroll my name in Needles for Defense. I also do typing and clerical work - anything to help save our country - The United State of America."
Mrs. Frank Gust.

Thank you for especially for the offer for Clerical work. We have your name in a special file.

"Am very anxious to sew for Our Boys on any garment needed for emergency."
Mrs. Laura Kelly, St. Clair Mich.

"I am a furrier and tailor, and will render service when I can."
Mrs. Edwin G. Neff.

"Although we are on a farm I have some time until spring to knit sweaters. I can come to Detroit any time to get my instructions."
Mrs. John Silcox.

"I am a lady nearly ninety years old and can sew and even thread my needle at times without glasses. Last winter I made three beautiful patch-work quilts and have time to work. Please let me do my share for American Defense."
Mrs. Margaret Shadek.

"I am a working mother, but I feel l must do something for my adopted country."
Mrs. F. Orlando.

"I would like to know if it is possible for me to get goods enough for eight or 10 women to work on in my home. I have two large rooms and would like to offer them for relief work."
Mrs. Mary Stephens.

TO Mrs. Stephens - we will tell you how to organize your group in a few days, when the club starts its group units. First call goes to individual workers.

"Just a line to say that you sure started something, but that's what we were waiting for."
Mrs. Frank M. Gagne.

"I am unable to sew in a group for Needles for Defense, but I will gladly sew in my home. I have had years of experience and consider it a privilege to do anything I can to help in this cause.
Mrs. Lucile Kostka​.

Courtesy of The Detroit News Archives.