Events in 1917

January 1, 1917

First Mississippi River Lock and Dam

The completion of Lock and Dam No. 1 in 1917 between Minneapolis and St. Paul revolutionized navigation on the Mississippi River. This pioneering $2.9 million project introduced innovative engineering features and transformed the unpredictable waterway into a reliable transportation corridor.

March 1, 1917

Victory Gardens in World Wars

Victory Gardens were a nationwide program launched in 1917 that transformed millions of American backyards into productive food sources during World Wars I and II, eventually producing 40% of America's vegetables by 1944.

April 1, 1917

Battle of Bloody April

A devastating month-long air campaign during World War I where the German Air Service dominated the Royal Flying Corps, resulting in 245 British aircraft and 211 aircrew losses over the Western Front.

May 14, 1917

American War Bonds Launch

The U.S. Treasury Department launched its first major war bonds program in 1917, introducing Liberty Bonds to finance World War I military operations. The program later evolved into Victory Bonds and War Bonds during World War II, becoming one of America's most successful financial initiatives.

June 2, 1917

Billy Bishop's Daring Solo Raid

Canadian flying ace Billy Bishop conducted a remarkable solo raid on a German airfield near Cambrai, France, destroying three enemy aircraft on the ground and engaging in aerial combat. This mission earned him the Victoria Cross, making him the first Canadian pilot to receive this prestigious honor.