The College of the City of New York was gaining a reputation for student activism, and the entrance of America into the war incited a great deal of controversy. The newly built Lewisohn Stadium on campus became a venue for anti-war rallies but also for fund-raising events to support the war effort.

Lewisohn Stadium opened in 1915 with the generous support of Adolph Lewisohn. The stadium became the site of college events including athletic games and graduations. However, it also became a venue for concerts, political rallies and war fund drives.

These events at Lewisohn Stadium were often detailed in the local newspapers.