The Arthur A. Cantwell collection is arranged into three series: Personal Papers (1917-2008), Newspapers (1917-2008) and Still Images (1914-1918).
Papers (1917-2008) are comprised mainly of correspondence, but also include military papers, and newspapers and clippings. Correspondence is almost exclusively to Cantwell's parents and brothers, and focuses on his impressions of the war and the military. Of interest in these letters are frequent comments about Cantwell's disapproval of men who waited to be drafted to serve their country, and an even deeper dislike of those who avoided the draft. Several of Cantwell's letters reference the sinking of the Tuscania and his experiences on board that ship. Letters sent to his brother Bill praise Bill's perseverance in training to be a doctor and his decision to join the Army after completing his education. Letters to his brother Roger exchange news and update Roger on Cantwell's training and movements throughout the war. Miscellaneous correspondence include a telegram sent to Cantwell by his father, and letters from the government requesting his father work for the Draft Board. Military papers include a pay book, orders, service summaries and a letter sent to the families of soldiers on the Tuscania, apologizing to them for postcards sent stating that their sons and husbands had arrived safely. The letter explains that soldiers simply filled out these cards and they were sent to the families without referencing the casualty lists.
Newspapers (1917-2008) include full pages and clippings about important happenings in the war. Several newspapers list the soldiers on the Tuscania from Wisconsin, the lists of the dead and the events of the day. Other newspapers list all the soldiers who joined from Shawano, summarized the 32nd Division's actions during the war and highlighted important days like Memorial Day and Armistice Day. Clippings about Dr. Cantwell refer to Cantwell's father, and summarize his medical practice and impact on Shawano. Articles on the Spanish Flu list ways to avoid the flu and stay healthy. Two articles (B2, F8, F13) were written about Cantwell's service and include comments from his son, John Cantwell.
Still images (1914-1918) include photographs from his time in the National Guard, training, service, and photographs of fellow soldiers. Color photographs are of a memorial to those who served from Shawano. Photographic postcards feature portraits of soldiers and World War I photographs feature Cantwell and other servicemen. Photographs from World War I are small personal images from Cantwell's time in Europe, featuring soldiers, towns and field work.
