Anthony Raczkiewicz draft registration

Registering for the World War I draft occurred on the same day for all three brothers-- June 5, 1917 -- in Precinct 9, Ward 1 of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Anthony was 22 years old. He lived at 319 Seward. He reported his birthplace as Tomaszow, Lublin, Poland and that he was an Alien in the U.S. and formerly a Russian citizen. He indicated that he had no military service and was requesting an exemption due to having a “dependent wife and mother.” It is unclear who is the “mother” of this reference. His physical description was medium height with a medium build, grey eyes and light brown hair and a deformed finger. Anthony was a tanner for Keifer Tannery Company. ***** 25 year old Joseph and 28 year old John (Jan) Raczkiewicz also registered. John signed his name “Jan.” They lived at 327 Gunnison NW (with Jan’s wife Frances.) Both brothers indicated they were from Lublin, Poland and were Russian citizens. Joseph did not claim any dependents as a reason for an exemption and was “willing to be drafted at once.” Joe was described as short, slender, light hair, with no disability listed which is interesting since later family reports are that Joe acquired his seizure disorder from being in the service. Joe was working as a cabinet maker at Grand Rapids Piano Case Company. Jan was of medium height with a medium build and brown hair and blue eyes. Jan indicated he was married and requested an exemption. Jan was a cabinet maker for Johnston Furniture Company.