World War I ended the old, established European order and ushered in a new era. The war was so horrific that, despite its significance, it was pushed aside and forgotten. During the 1920s, the Oshkosh Public Museum engaged in contemporary collecting at a time when it was almost unheard of. For that reason, the museum's collection includes many remarkable items that both document military service and the mobilization of the populace on the homefront.

At the outbreak of the war, Wisconsin's National Guard units were called into Federal service. Most fought in what became the 32nd "Red Arrow" Division, while others were assigned to the 42nd "Rainbow" Division. Men and women from the region also served in other organizations. One hundred sixty-nine men from Winnebago County would die during the war.