According to John Vachon's daughter from his second marrige. John married Millicent Leeper aka penny around 1938. John would often write long letters to her and these can be found published in book form. John also was known to like his alcohol, often overdoing it. Penny would often be left at home with 3 children while John was on the road pursuing his career. It was long hard struggle for her and Penny took her own life in 1960.
Quite a sad story, as we enjoy John's photos of her.

That's a cork-tipped cigarette.

She is lighting a filter cigarette...they didn't come out until the 50's, huh?

In fact, she is the kind of lady I married (the second time around), except for the smokes. Notice the binoculars at her side. She looks like she's ready for adventure.

seem to be in the minority that finds this woman attractive, whoever she is (was). My more colorful reimagining of this photo:

(Click for full-sized image)

Grandmother?

I think it's Ray Liotta.

Still on her big toe.

That may or may not be Leo G. Carroll in the background.

I'm not passing judgment on Penny (if it is her) but she smokes, sits and carries herself in a masculine manner. Also she has a blister on her heel from the sandal strap but I'm sure she would not give a flying finger what I think. She reminds me of what my uncle used to refer to as a "tough tomato."