KSU May 4, 1970

The Kent State University shootings ~ May 4, 1970

44 years ago today, we were in shock ~ unrest and turmoil led to the death of 4 students. 

I was there, working in the Alumni Relations Office, which was in the building behind the jeeps in the top right hand corner of this photo.  Minutes before the shooting, I was standing on the edge of the commons looking at the unbelievable scene before me.  Little did I know what was about to take place.

I wasn't at my desk long before we were notified about the shooting.  The office doors were then locked and we were not to leave.  There were rumors of snipers on roofs and mass confusion.  About an hour or two later, we were told that we could leave at our own risk.  

I was living in a house directly across the street from the campus.  I ran and didn't stop till I was in the door of that house.  I lived with 9 other girls there (it was a 3-story old house that still houses students to this day) and we were all packing ~ we just wanted to get out of Kent.  The streets coming into the city were all closed ~ no cars could get in to pick anyone up ~ so we had to find ways to get out of town.  I remember many details from that day, the week before, and the weeks after, but I will leave that for another time.  

Today, along with many, I am remembering the events of that day.  I am saying a prayer for those who lost their lives, as I do every year on this anniversary.

We were all so young.  It was a frightening day.  A sad day.  A day that I will never forget.