The Molly Brown House Museum
1340 Pennsylvania Street
Denver, Colorado 80203
303.832.4092
Fax: 303.832.2340

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In 1914, with the outbreak of WWI in Europe, many Americans traveled to France to assist in the war efforts. The Volunteers set up auxiliary military hospitals, and of course, Margaret was there to help. She considered France to be her second home, and felt compelled to go above and beyond to help implement relief programs.

This group of volunteers formed CARD (the American Committee for Devastated France). CARD's mission was to rebuild devastated areas behind the frontlines. Led by Anne Tracey Morgan (daughter of J.P. Morgan) and Ann Murray Dike, the work was almost entirely done by women. They drove and repaired ambulances and provided medical assistance. Margaret was appointed director. She worked closely with government officials and local villagers to rebuild and refurnish houses and to distribute food, clothing, linens and tools. She was involved in importing new livestock and establishing medical facilities and health education programs. She also helped rebuild schools and public libraries.

After WWI, CARD continued to help victims until 1924. Margaret settled in New York and worked with blind soldiers at the Briar Cliff Lodge. Eventually, a museum was founded on the grounds where the organization once stood. The museum holds art and artifacts from the war. Margaret Tobin Brown's name is engraved on a plaque commemorating the organization's most significant volunteers. Margaret later received the Legion of Honor award for her heroism in the relief efforts in France.

Content from Kristen Iversen's book, Molly Brown, Unraveling the Myth, published by Johnson Books in 1999.