The book “The Minute Men of ’17” tells the story of the volunteer citizen-soldiers who formed the New York Guard during World War I after the New York National Guard was federalized for overseas service. It describes how these “Minute Men,” organized in 1917 under the authority of Governor Charles S. Whitman and Adjutant General Charles H. Sherrill, replaced the National Guard in protecting New York’s vital infrastructure, including railroads, aqueducts, power plants, and canals, from potential sabotage. Composed mainly of younger men under draft age and older veterans, the force grew to more than 20,000 members, divided into regiments stationed throughout the state. The article captures both the patriotism and hardship of their service—long, cold watches, modest pay, and limited equipment—but also their pride in contributing to the war effort on the home front. It highlights how the New York Guard became an essential element of homeland defense during the Great War and laid the foundation for its continued existence as part of New York’s organized militia system.
This historical article is available exclusively to our Patreon members at the Private Tier ($1) and above, as our way of thanking them for their incredible support in keeping StateDefenseForce.com online and thriving. Their contributions directly fund our web hosting and domain costs, our web designer and maintainer, and the dedicated staff of The Center for State Defense Force History who research, obtain, and post these valuable historical documents. Thanks to their continued generosity, we’re able to preserve and share the legacy of America’s State Defense Forces while expanding our mission to educate the public and strengthen support for these vital organizations nationwide.
Click Here to Join Our Patreon Program or Upgrade Your Membership