Soldiers in the Mud, Cpl. Edward Shenton, c. 1918

Building Men: Philadelphia College Students as WWI Military Engineers is an exhibition featuring artifacts from various collections, including the Atwater Kent Collection at Drexel, the Drexel University Archives and the archives of the 103rd Engineer Battalion Armory. Along with an array of related artifacts, the exhibition features photographs and sketches from local members of the American Expeditionary Force on the ground in France during World War I (WWI). Aiming to draw connections between current college students and those of similar age in Philadelphia during World War I, this exhibition draws from the military career of a young corporal, Edward Shenton (who was also an artist), and the changes that higher education institutions — such as Drexel — made to encourage young people’s involvement in the war. The often-unrecognized work of military engineers is a particular focus of this exhibition: Shenton and many other college-aged men joined the ranks of the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 103rd Engineer Battalion at their Philadelphia Armory, now located on Drexel’s campus at 32nd Street and Lancaster Avenue.

Building Men was made possible through the efforts and contributions of dedicated students and local institutions and individuals. Our sincerest appreciation goes to the generous contributors who helped share this story of some of Philadelphia’s college students during World War I. 
 
Curator: Emma Johnson (BA History ’26) 
 
Contributors:  
Wesley Craig, Craig Nannos, and the 103rd Engineer Battalion Armory 
Atwater Kent Collection at Drexel 
Drexel University Archives

Special thanks to Amie McGraham (granddaughter of Edward Shenton) and Rex Passion for providing access to Shenton’s sketches.

This exhibition is free and open to the public. For any questions please contact Lynn Waddell at lcc48@drexel.edu. 

Thursday, August 14, 2025, 5:00 - 7:00 PM

Rincliffe Gallery & A.J. Drexel Picture Gallery, Drexel University

Please join us for the opening reception of Building Men: Philadelphia College Students as World War I Engineers, with remarks from the curator, Emma Johnson, History '25.

This event is free and light refreshments will be provided.