I love discovering stories about my family. Recently, I was researching a relative, Harry Hatmaker, and his service during World War I. There isn’t a lot of specific information available, so I broadened my search and found the truly amazing story about the vessel that brought Harry home on his last trip across the Atlantic Ocean.
The USS Mongolia was launched in 1903 as an ocean-going passenger steamship, but in World War I, she was transformed into an important transport ship for supplies and troops.
Experience the suspenseful and true story of the USS Mongolia through engaging text and lots of primary source photographs and documents. Filled with amazing facts, this story helps readers understand the perils of transatlantic travel during World War I, for both troops and civilians. Learn about the crazy paint job, the massive engines, the dangers, and the victories.
***IMPORTANT: These are true accounts. This eBook discusses the first American shots of World War I fired on the high seas and the accidental death of 2 nurses (the first female military fatalities of WWI). Keep these facts in mind when determining if this eBook is appropriate for your readers.***
The culture, the news, the events that each of us experiences on a daily basis influence the way we live. It’s the same way for everyone, always has been and always will be. To help tell these stories, I’m pleased to launch a new video series called “Junctions, ordinary people in extraordinary history.” Here’s the first episode. Let me know what you think about it.
Please watch, like, share, and subscribe. You might get tired of hearing that, but you know what? It really, truly makes a difference in how these videos are distributed. It’s a great way to support History Heights!
Gail Masinda (History Heights & Maestro Heights) 
Gail, that was the most riveting WWI naval warship story that I have ever immensely, enjoyed, in my lifetime. I was fearful the ship was to be sunk, but, amazingly, no!!! I’ll never forget the USS Mongolia, and its heroic crew, and may they keep pictures of her, forever!! Thanks soooo much; you’re quite a natural historian. WHAT A Gift!
LikeLike
Thank you! The more research I did, the more fascinating this story became. It was a joy to create this video. I will always wonder how much of the USS Mongolia story Harry knew when he boarded, but that part of the tale will have to remain a mystery.
LikeLike