Foreword

Foreword

AS A YOUNGSTER, growing up in the area once occupied by Camp Greene was a treat. There were always stories about how the area was once covered with buildings and training equipment for the World War I soldiers. But during the 1960s and 70s there were few physical reminders of Camp Greene.

Scattered throughout the area now known as Westerly Hills -- Ashley Park there were concrete foundations where buildings once stood. Many generations of children grew up using the foundations for play areas. There were two other reminders of the camp -- the tall concrete DAR monument on Wilkinson Boulevard and a highway marker erected by the State of North Carolina on Morehead Street.

Until recently that was all that remained of the camp. Today, 60 years since Camp Greene closed, Citizens For Preservation is working to preserve and restore the old James C. Dowd House. This house, used as headquarters during the construction of the camp, is the most significant reminder of Camp Greene's existence. It has been designated a local historic site by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Properties Commission.

As co-chairman of the Dowd House Preservation Committee of Citizens For Preservation I look forward to the perpetuation of the memories of Camp Greene through the preservation of the James C. Dowd House and the publication of this book.

I'm sure you'll enjoy reading this colorful account of Charlotte's most significant role in World War I.

DAVID T. RITCH