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Back Issues: Mock wars and stirring words at queen carnivals

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Description: Local historians weekly "Back Issues" article in the Manawatū Standard. Fundraising to support the war effort was extensive from the start of World War 1. From 1915, Queen carnivals were held. These fundraising extravaganzas were competitions held between towns and districts to raise the most money. The prize was a mock coronation of the winning team's queen candidate, usually held in the town hall. In 1918, the Manawatū Patriotic Society launched a make-believe war fundraising event. Mock armies organised war themed entertainment. It raised 30,000 pounds for Manawatū's sick and needy - over $7 million in today's money.