World War I Era: Camp Fort Totten in Queens, 1917-18

This photograph captures Camp Fort Totten during World War I, specifically between 1917 and 1918. Located in Queens, New York, Fort Totten was originally constructed in the 1860s and played a crucial role in the defense of New York City. During the Great War, the camp served as a training ground for soldiers preparing to deploy overseas. The facility was known for its strategic importance and unique location at the confluence of the East River and Little Neck Bay.

In this image, you can see the military structures and personnel that made up the camps landscape. Dominating the scene are barracks and support buildings designed in a traditional military style. The presence of troops in uniform reflects the immense mobilization efforts of the United States during the conflict, as the country sought to expand its military ranks in response to the global crisis. Fort Totten continued its military service through subsequent conflicts, illustrating its longstanding role in national defense.