The 1918 Influenza Pandemic

While Connecticut soldiers were fighting in France, their families back home fought a battle of their own – against a deadly influenza virus. In fact, more Connecticans died in 1918-1919 from influenza than were killed fighting in WWI. Like any crisis, it brought out the best and worst in our citizens. What was it like to live here during this pandemic? Join Adult Programs Manager Natalie Belanger in the galleries for an informal discussion of the “Spanish Flu” outbreak. We’ll look at sources from the period, including posters, news accounts, and photographs to make sense of this tragic event, and think about what lessons it can teach us today.

This program is free with admission. Kindly RSVP at (860) 236-5621 x238 or by emailing rsvp@chs.org. Questions? Email Natalie Belanger, Adult Programs Manager, at  natalie_belanger@chs.org or call (860) 236-5621 x289.

Through December 1, CMCH is collecting personal care items for military service members in partnership with Blue Star Mothers of America. Please pitch in by bringing an item. Learn more here.