Here is a straight forward example of the fear of German aliens and spies. Metcalf is responding to someone who is upset about a Pro-German having a successful bakery and has made claims about this person being a traitor.

This letter promotes the ending of the teaching of German in Iowa public schools. The citizens of Ogden, Iowa are outraged and want something to be done about ending the program.

Metcalf

Metcalf responds to Shambaugh, will be sending some secret servicemen.

Hint of the coercion and violence: "it would seem to me that as a matter of self protection these men would desist from preaching and teaching German at once.'

Metcalf responds to Lamoreux, fully endorsing his idea.

Metcalf says 'thanks,' but no funds as of yet.

Metcalf responds, urging Davis to persist and press name changes, as "it has become quite the fashion to change German names to American names at this time."

Metcalf's response to Carlson's letter.

This bulletin is from the office of the Governor W. L. Harding, written by Herbert J. Metcalf dated November 23, 1917. The bulletin states that the Iowa State Council of National Defense is proud of the efforts from the women of Iowa. It also states…