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Black River Falls (vicinity), Wisconsin. April-June 1937. Photographs show families who live on small farms in cut-over areas. Dilapidated log cabins and shacks; interior details. Poor families; Bohemian farm families. Few scenes in town.
June 1937. "Ray Allen family near Black River Falls, Wisconsin." Medium format negative by Russell Lee for the Resettlement Administration. View full size.
During the depression bug screens were such a precious commodity that people used to tether their dog to the front door to make sure nobody would steal it while they were away and that wild animals couldn't tear it. They didn't have HVAC in those days and the houses were often improperly shaded so the kitchen could make the heat unbearable in the summer and open windows and doors would bring in bugs. This house has screen doors without any tears and this couple has obviously kept their children bathed and kempt under very difficult circumstances.
I say, if all those children are that lady's, then I would say she has weathered the years well. They all look healthy and I hope life improved for them. I also hope there was a lot of love in that family.
Oldest daughter looks about 13, Mom & Dad look like they might be 30.
Mom looks mighty proud of her brood!
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