Investigation of Communist Activities in Seattle, Wash., Area, Hearings, Part 1

by United States. Congress. House. Committee on Un-American Activities

Mr. Tavenner. What was the date?

Mr. Dennett. I think that would be in 1946 or 1947.

Mr. Tavenner. Are you a member of the Communist Party now?

Mr. Dennett. I am not.

Mr. Tavenner. Over what period of time were you an active member in the Communist Party?

Mr. Dennett. With the 2 exceptions of the CCC and the term of service in the Army, from 1931 to 1947.

Mr. Tavenner. I believe in 1947 you were expelled from the Communist Party?

Mr. Dennett. That is correct.

Mr. Tavenner. With that general background I would like to go back, Mr. Dennett, to the inception of your membership in the Communist Party.

You have said that that was in 1931. And the committee would be interested to learn what the circumstances were under which you became a member of the Communist Party. By that I mean why you joined the Communist Party as well as the mechanics that were used in your becoming a member.