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History Haven, 2111 N Lacrosse Street, Rapid City, SD (2025)

01/13/2025

In 1928, Harry Swenson stood next to a 1925 Ford Model T pickup in Williamson County, Texas, holding a shotgun, ready for a deer hunt west of Georgetown. The Model T, once a delivery wagon for the grocery store where Swenson worked as a clerk, now served as transportation for a much different purpose. The dusty landscape around him echoed the ruggedness of rural Texas, where hunting was both a tradition and a necessity for many families. Swenson, with his shotgun in hand, embodied the spirit of the era, where the line between work and leisure was often blurred, and practical vehicles like the Model T adapted to the needs of the time.

The scene captures a moment in the life of a man who balanced the routine of working at the grocery store with the thrill of outdoor adventure. The Model T, an iconic symbol of early 20th-century America, was much more than just a means of transport. It represented the merging of progress and practicality, as Swenson’s hunt for deer and his daily commute were facilitated by the same vehicle. For Swenson and others in rural areas, the car was a tool for both survival and recreation, playing a key role in their lives beyond just being a mode of transportation.

This photograph, preserved by the UTSA, provides a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of the time, where hunting, work, and transportation intersected. It is a testament to the adaptability of early automobiles and the multifaceted lives of those who lived in Texas during the late 1920s. The image not only captures a man in his element but also speaks to the broader story of a rapidly changing America, where technology and tradition worked side by side.

01/13/2025

Around 1904, in Harlan County, Kentucky, a woman sat diligently spinning flax on a flax wheel, her hands moving skillfully as she worked. The house behind her, a simple structure, was anchored by a large stone chimney that stood as a testament to the enduring strength of the home. The woman’s focus on her craft was mirrored by the steady rhythm of her wheel, a reminder of the labor-intensive methods that were often used in rural Appalachia to produce everyday items. Nearby, a man and a boy relaxed on the front porch, while a younger boy sat in a chair at the foot of the house, each seemingly content in their surroundings.

Life in Harlan County at the time was rooted in simplicity and self-sufficiency, with families relying on their skills to meet daily needs. The image captured by the University of Louisville Photographic Archives speaks to a time when handmade goods, like the flax the woman was spinning, were integral to rural life. This process, which had been passed down through generations, allowed families to produce their own textiles for clothing, bedding, and other essentials. It was a labor that required patience, precision, and a deep connection to the land and the traditions of the community.

This photograph, with its quiet portrayal of daily life, is a window into the past of a rural Appalachian family, showing the balance between work and rest in a time before the widespread industrialization of the region. The scene, with its peaceful yet purposeful atmosphere, serves as a reminder of the values of hard work, community, and resilience that defined life in Harlan County, Kentucky, during the early 20th century.

01/13/2025

In 1938, in Little Rock, Arkansas, a group of boys found themselves perched on top of a Coca-Cola stand, turning an everyday structure into their playground. The scene captured by Dorothea Lange, known for her poignant photographs during the Great Depression, highlighted the carefree moments of childhood amidst the tough economic times. The stand, likely a small kiosk or advertisement, became an impromptu spot for the boys to climb and play, making the most of what little they had. Their energy and joy contrasted sharply with the struggles of the era, where many families faced poverty and uncertainty.

Though the Depression had left its mark on the country, this moment symbolized resilience and the simple pleasures of youth. The Coca-Cola stand, often a symbol of comfort and familiarity, took on new meaning as the boys found amusement in their surroundings. It was a quiet rebellion against the weight of hardship, showing how even in times of economic strain, children could find ways to laugh and play. Lange’s photograph captured this fleeting, unguarded moment, emphasizing the ability of children to bring joy to their circumstances.

Lange’s photograph, preserved by the Farm Security Administration, serves as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of those who lived through the Great Depression. In the midst of difficult times, children like these boys found ways to embrace life, creating memories and moments that would last a lifetime. The image stands as a testament to the enduring human capacity to find light, even in the darkest of circumstances.

01/13/2025

In 1946, in the heart of West Virginia’s coal country, Leroy, the young son of Julius Brooks, lived in a modest four-room house. The home, tucked within the backdrop of McDowell County, was sparsely furnished, but there was an undeniable cleanliness to it, showing the pride Julius took in his family's living conditions. Though the house was simple, it was the only space Leroy and his father could afford, a small refuge amid the harsh realities of life as a miner in the region. Julius worked tirelessly in the Warwick Mine, where the weight of the coal industry’s demands was often felt far beyond the depths of the earth.

The house was part of a company-owned setup, and while Julius paid $10 a month for it, the company was clear about their lack of responsibility when it came to upkeep or repairs. The responsibility of maintaining the home rested entirely on Julius’s shoulders, adding another layer of strain to his already grueling work as a miner. Yet, despite the lack of support from the Kingston Pocahontas Coal Company, Julius did his best to provide for Leroy and create a clean, functional home, where, at least for a time, they could escape the rough world of the mines.

Captured by photographer Russell Lee for the Library of Congress, this image painted a portrait of the struggles faced by coal miners and their families during the mid-20th century. It was a glimpse into the lives of those who lived in the shadow of the mines—men like Julius, whose hard labor shaped the nation’s industrial growth, yet left them with little more than the barest of essentials in their homes. Leroy’s world, while clean, was one of limited opportunities, with the weight of his father’s sacrifices hanging over him, as the Brooks family navigated life in an industry that gave much but asked for even more.

01/13/2025

In 1926, two men paused beside their car on a dirt road in Lake County, California, capturing a moment of camaraderie against the backdrop of a rustic cabin and a forested hillside. The car, with its polished exterior reflecting the midday sun, hinted at the growing accessibility of automobiles in rural America. One man stood with a rifle in hand, his stance suggesting they might have just returned from a hunting trip or were preparing to venture into the wilderness beyond. Their relaxed expressions and casual attire spoke to a shared appreciation for the outdoors and the simple joys of exploration.

The cabin, nestled among the trees, seemed to blend into the natural surroundings, its weathered boards telling a story of years spent enduring the elements. Perhaps it served as a temporary retreat for the men, a base for their excursions into the rugged landscape of Northern California. The forested hillside rising behind them was dense and untamed, a reminder of the untapped beauty of the region and the promise of adventure it offered. Together, the scene captured the timeless appeal of the American wilderness, a place where people sought both respite and challenge.

Preserved by the Center for Sacramento History, this photograph provides a window into a quieter, more personal moment in an era of change. It reflects the interplay between progress and tradition, as modern transportation brought people closer to nature while preserving the rugged independence of outdoor pursuits. The image stands as a testament to the enduring human connection to the land, whether through exploration, recreation, or the timeless act of pausing to take it all in.

01/13/2025

In 1892, W. S. and Flora Bowen Bentley posed with their family in front of their farm on Iowa Indian lands, seven miles east of Coyle in what was then Oklahoma Territory. The photograph captures a moment of pride and permanence as the Bentleys worked to establish a homestead in a region shaped by expansion and settlement. Their farm, situated on land with deep historical significance, reflects the blend of ambition and complexity that marked this period of American history.

The image showcases the rugged determination of settlers who cultivated the land despite its challenges. The family stands amidst a backdrop of modest structures and open fields, a testament to their hard work and resilience in building a life in the frontier. Their farm represents not only a livelihood but also their role in shaping the growing communities of the territory as it transitioned toward statehood.

Preserved by the Oklahoma Historical Society, this photograph offers a glimpse into the lives of settlers navigating the opportunities and tensions of the era. It serves as a historical document that highlights both the aspirations of families like the Bentleys and the layered history of the land they inhabited, bridging the stories of settlers and the Indigenous peoples whose lands they shared.

01/13/2025

In 1939, at Flint River Farms in Georgia, Mrs. Missouri Thomas stands proudly in her smokehouse, surrounded by the fruits of her labor. The shelves are lined with canned goods, and cured meats hang in readiness for the months ahead, symbolizing self-reliance and resourcefulness during a time when many families depended on subsistence farming. This scene captures not only the essentials of rural life but also the pride and perseverance of individuals like Mrs. Thomas, who worked tirelessly to provide for their households.

The smokehouse serves as a testament to the ingenuity of the era, a place where food preservation was both a necessity and a skill passed down through generations. The neatly arranged jars and carefully prepared meats reflect the meticulous effort required to sustain a family, especially during the challenges of the Great Depression. Her work represents a vital part of community life, where every family member played a role in ensuring survival and stability.

This photograph, taken by Marion Post Wolcott for the Farm Security Administration, highlights the dignity and resilience of rural Americans. Through Wolcott's lens, Mrs. Thomas becomes a symbol of strength and determination, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who navigated hardship with unwavering resolve and a commitment to preserving their way of life.

01/13/2025

In 1895, in the vast landscapes of New Mexico, two Navajo individuals stand solemnly in front of a traditional hogan, their presence capturing a moment of cultural continuity. The hogan, with its rounded, earthen structure, represents the Navajo's deep connection to the land and their enduring traditions. This simple yet profound image conveys a sense of belonging and resilience, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Navajo people during a time of significant change in the American Southwest.

The photograph offers insight into a way of life intricately tied to the natural world. The individuals, dressed in customary attire, embody the strength and pride of their heritage. The setting, surrounded by the stark beauty of the New Mexico landscape, further emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between the Navajo and their environment. This scene evokes a sense of timelessness, illustrating how cultural practices were preserved despite the encroachment of modernity and shifting societal dynamics.

Part of the collection *Stereographs of Indians of the Southwest, California, and other views*, this image, captured by George Wharton James and G. L. Rose, provides a valuable glimpse into Navajo life at the close of the 19th century. Their work serves as a visual archive, offering viewers a deeper appreciation for the traditions and resilience of Indigenous peoples in the face of historical challenges.

01/13/2025

In 1938, a young girl worked diligently in the cranberry bogs of Burlington County, New Jersey, picking cranberries alongside her family. This seasonal work, which was physically demanding and required long hours under the sun, was crucial for families trying to make ends meet during the difficult years of the Great Depression. For this girl, and many others like her, the cranberry fields were a place of labor rather than leisure, where every berry picked helped put food on the table.

The photograph reveals a striking reality—three-fourths of the cranberry pickers were children, many of whom had no choice but to work. With little other means of income, entire families, including their young children, depended on the harvest to survive. The work was harsh, often forcing children to miss school and contributing to the widespread practice of child labor during that era. This young girl, who had already experienced the weight of responsibility at a tender age, was part of a larger pattern of economic hardship that left few options for families struggling to survive.

Captured by Arthur Rothstein, the image of this young girl in the cranberry bog serves as a stark reminder of the economic hardships faced by many during the Depression. It reflects not just the physical labor of the time but also the emotional toll of growing up too quickly, forced to sacrifice education and childhood for survival. Her story, and the stories of countless other children who worked in the fields, are a testament to the resilience and endurance of those who lived through one of the most difficult periods in American history.

01/13/2025

The Great Depression remains one of the darkest periods in American history, and images from the time vividly capture the immense struggles of those who endured it. A common portrayal features a poor family, often a mother and her children, their faces deeply marked by the hardships they faced. The stark details—makeshift clothing, weathered expressions, and the simplicity of their surroundings—reveal the depth of their suffering during this era of widespread poverty and economic collapse.

Yet, these photographs also convey an undeniable sense of strength and determination. The families, though battered by their circumstances, exhibit a quiet resilience that speaks to their will to survive. In the midst of despair, their efforts to persevere, care for one another, and maintain some semblance of normalcy reflect a profound inner fortitude. These scenes remind viewers of the shared humanity and endurance that characterized the lives of millions during the 1930s.

Even in the face of overwhelming adversity, the resilience of the American spirit shines through. These images serve not only as historical documentation but also as a tribute to the power of endurance and hope. They remind us that even in the bleakest times, there is a capacity for strength and the determination to build a better future.

01/13/2025

In 1936, in the small town of Ruthven, Iowa, Mr. Rauhauser stood with his wife and one of their seven children outside their modest home. A farm hand by trade, Mr. Rauhauser had always worked the land, but now, during the depths of the Great Depression, he found himself out of work. The farm that had once sustained his family was no longer providing, and the future seemed uncertain. Despite the hardship, he stood by his family, determined to keep going and make ends meet.

The house behind them was humble, a reflection of their simple but hard-working life. With seven children to care for, the Rauhausers faced significant challenges, and the absence of steady work only made things more difficult. Yet, the family remained hopeful, and Mr. Rauhauser had applied for direct relief, hoping the government aid could help them through these tough times. The image of the family, framed by the rural landscape, showed their resilience, even as the weight of the Depression pressed down on them.

Captured by Farm Security Administration photographer Russell Lee, this photograph preserved a moment of quiet determination in the face of adversity. It was not just a portrait of a family but of countless others struggling during the Great Depression. The Rauhausers, like many others, embodied the strength of those who, despite their hardships, continued to fight for their families and their futures. The photograph serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and hope that people clung to during one of the most challenging periods in American history.

01/13/2025

In the rolling hills of West Virginia, two young women sat side by side on the stone steps in front of their home, posing for the camera with two loyal dogs by their side. It was the late 19th century, a time when life in rural Appalachia was simple but hard, and the photograph captured a fleeting moment of peace in the midst of a tough existence. The porch behind them, likely the gathering place for family meals and evening conversations, stood as a quiet witness to their everyday lives, surrounded by the wilderness of southeastern Ohio and central West Virginia. The girls, dressed in modest yet carefully chosen clothing, seemed content to take a brief break from their duties, their expressions both serious and gentle.

The dogs, ever faithful companions, sat at their feet, reflecting the strong bond between the family and their animals. It was a bond that helped them survive in an environment where every day brought new challenges, from tending to crops and livestock to withstanding the harsh Appalachian winters. Despite the work that would await them after the photo was taken, the image preserved a moment of connection, not just between the women and their dogs, but between generations and the land that had shaped their lives. For a brief second, time stood still, and the burdens of farm life were momentarily forgotten.

Taken by traveling photographer Albert J. Ewing, the photograph also stands as a historical record, documenting life in this corner of West Virginia from 1896 to 1912. Ewing’s camera captured the essence of rural Americana during an era of rapid change, when many families, like those of Eaton, West Virginia, still held tightly to traditions and lived off the land. The photo, with its handwritten notes and weathered edges, offers a glimpse into a past life—a snapshot of youth, family, and the enduring strength of rural America.

01/13/2025

In the heart of southeast Missouri, Mrs. Spiller stood by the stove in her small, one-room shack, preparing a meal for her family. The cramped space, barely large enough to accommodate her and her loved ones, was illuminated by a narrow window that offered little relief from the dimness inside. The dampness of the dirt floor seeped into the very walls of the home, making each step feel heavier, each day a little more grueling. Mrs. Spiller, wearing overshoes to protect her feet from the cold, muddy ground, moved carefully around the room, the weight of her responsibilities visible in every action.

The shack was a reflection of the harsh conditions that many families in rural Missouri were enduring during this time. There was no luxury here—just bare necessities and the determination to keep going despite the challenges. The stove, though a small comfort, was the heart of the home, where meals were prepared with whatever ingredients could be scrounged together. The narrow window was the only glimpse of the outside world, a world that offered little respite from the dampness and isolation that defined their daily lives.

Photographed by John Vachon in 1941, this image captures a moment in time that speaks to the resilience of families like the Spillers. Though their circumstances were difficult, they carried on with quiet strength, making do with what they had. The overshoes, the dirt floor, the cramped space—all of these details paint a vivid picture of life during the Great Depression, when survival often depended on grit, resourcefulness, and an unwavering sense of determination.

01/13/2025

In 1936, at Cumberland Mountain Farms in Scottsboro, Alabama, a scene unfolded that highlighted the simplicity and resourcefulness of rural life during the Great Depression. Young boys, barefoot and dressed in modest clothing, gathered outside for school. Sitting on chairs fashioned from tree sections, they read and learned in a setting that reflected both their limited resources and their commitment to education.

This image captures the essence of a time when communities relied on ingenuity and resilience to navigate economic hardships. The lack of traditional school furnishings did not deter these children or their educators. Instead, the natural surroundings and handmade seating became part of their learning environment, symbolizing the determination to provide opportunities for knowledge and growth, even under difficult circumstances.

The photograph serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of these boys and their community. Their focus and dedication to education amidst such modest means are a reminder of the value placed on learning as a path to a brighter future. It also reflects the broader story of perseverance that defined the lives of many during this challenging period in American history.

01/13/2025

Tucked away in the rugged hills of Breathitt County, Kentucky, in 1940, a mountain woman quietly churns butter on the steps of her front porch. Captured by Farm Security Administration photographer Marion Post Wolcott, this image tells a story of resilience and self-reliance amidst the isolation of Appalachia.

The intricate play of shadows and light almost hides her figure, blending her seamlessly into the rustic surroundings. Her home, nestled “up Burton's Fork off Middle Fork of the Kentucky River,” reflects the simplicity of mountain life, where survival often depended on ingenuity and hard work. The act of churning butter, a rhythmic and meditative task, symbolizes the traditions that sustained families in this remote region.

Wolcott’s lens captured more than a scene—it immortalized a way of life deeply connected to the land and steeped in heritage. The photograph stands as a tribute to the enduring spirit of mountain families, whose daily labor was both a necessity and a cultural practice that kept generations rooted to the land.

01/13/2025

In 1937, the Ray Allen family, near Black River Falls, Wisconsin, was photographed by Russell Lee as part of the Farm Security Administration's effort to document life during the Great Depression. These images, taken by photographers like Lee, aimed to share the stories of rural American families facing significant hardships yet demonstrating resilience and strength.

The photograph of the Allen family standing near their home captures the perseverance of farmers during this challenging time. With limited resources, they worked tirelessly to maintain their land and provide for their families, enduring the economic struggles that defined the era. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and fortitude of rural America.

This moment in time offers a powerful glimpse into the everyday lives of a family in Wisconsin, showing both the challenges they faced and the triumphs they experienced. The photograph embodies the resilience of those who fought to survive and thrive, despite the overwhelming odds of the Great Depression.

01/13/2025

In 1939, photographer John Vachon captured a powerful image in Kempton, West Virginia, featuring a young girl from the Blizzard family. Standing on the front porch of her home, she gazes into the camera with a quiet intensity, representing both the innocence of youth and the strength that rural communities relied on during the Great Depression. The simplicity of the scene speaks volumes about the resilience of families who faced immense challenges during this difficult period.

This photograph is part of a larger project by the Farm Security Administration to document the realities of rural life in the 1930s. While the image portrays the struggles of families trying to survive amidst economic hardship, it also highlights the enduring spirit of those who lived in close-knit communities. Despite the harsh conditions, these families found ways to endure, relying on one another and their deep connection to the land to make it through.

Vachon’s photograph is a testament to the quiet strength of rural America during the Great Depression. The young girl's gaze captures a moment of hope amidst adversity, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of those who faced the economic turmoil of the era. It is an image that speaks to the resilience of communities, the enduring bond of family, and the determination to survive against the odds.

01/13/2025

In 1937, Dorothea Lange captured a striking image of a farmer's home in Greene County, Georgia, offering a glimpse into the life of a man who had spent fifty years growing cotton on his own land. Despite his decades of labor and ownership, the image reveals the economic challenges rural farmers faced during the Great Depression. Many farmers, like this one, struggled to make ends meet even after years of hard work, as the agricultural industry faltered, and the effects of the Depression deepened.

Lange’s photograph speaks to the resilience and determination of the farmer, who, despite hardships, maintained a deep connection to the land. The simplicity of his home contrasts sharply with the vast fields of cotton that once thrived there, symbolizing the fleeting nature of prosperity for many rural families. The image conveys the emotional and physical toll of farm life during a time when economic collapse had upended the lives of countless agricultural workers.

As part of the Farm Security Administration’s mission to document the struggles of American families during the Depression, Lange’s work sheds light on the often-overlooked lives of farmers who endured despite their hardships. The photograph is not just a snapshot of poverty, but a testament to the strength, resilience, and enduring bond between the land and the people who worked it.

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