Reluctant Warrior Alvin York Subject of Next TSLA Workshop

He was a reluctant warrior who was denied conscientious objector status and agreed to combat duty only after a commander convinced him that doing so wouldn't conflict with his religious beliefs. He later helped lead one of the key offensives during World War I, earning a Medal of Honor and numerous other commendations for his efforts.

Sergeant Alvin C. York
aboard the S. S. Ohioan, 1919
Library Photograph Collection

Alvin C. York is one of Tennessee's most celebrated war heroes - and he'll be one of the main subjects of the next workshop sponsored by the Tennessee State Library and Archives (TSLA).

The workshop, titled "World War I and Alvin York: Tennessee's Service in the 'Great War,'" will be held in TSLA's auditorium from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. Jan. 24. Dr. Michael Birdwell, a history professor at Tennessee Tech University, will lead the free session on World War I documents and photographs available at TSLA. Dr. Birdwell is curator of the Alvin C. York papers in Pall Mall and is considered an expert on World War I and York.

Although the workshop is free and open to the public, reservations are necessary due to limited seating in the auditorium. To make a reservation, email workshop.tsla@tn.gov or call (615) 741-2764.

The State Library and Archives building is located at 403 Seventh Ave. North, directly west of the State Capitol building in downtown Nashville.

The State Library and Archives is a division of the Tennessee Department of State and Tre Hargett, Secretary of State.