engine of souls | forum 3

mre · Senior Member

Assignment #14: Great Depression Part III

Savanna · Veteran Member

My keyboard is coverec in tears as i think of the sleepless, workfilled nights i have ahead of me.

Arthur · Veteran Member

March 29 - 1935

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt. I am writing you a little letter this morning. Are you glad it is spring I am. For so manny poor people can raise some more to eat. You no what I am writing this letter for. Mother said Mrs. Roosevelt is a God mother to the world and I though mabe you had some old clothes You no Mother is a good sewer and all the little girls are getting Easter dresses. And I though you had some you no. papa could wear Mr. Roosevelt shirts and cloth I no. My papa like Mr. Roosevelt and Mother said Mr. Roosevelt carry his worries with a smile You no he is always happy. You no we are not living on the relief we live on a little farm. papa did have a job And got laid on 5 yrs ago so we save and got two horses and 2 cows and a hog so we can all the food stuff we can ever thing to eat some time we don't have eni thing but we live. But you no it so hard to get cloth. So I though mabe you had some. You no what you though was no good Mother can make over for me I am 11 yr old. I have 2 brother and a sister 14 yr old. I wish I could see you. I no I would like you both. And shoes Mother wears 6 or 61/2. And papa wear 9. We have no car or no phone or Radio papa he would like to have a radio but he said there is other thing he need more. papa is worried about his seed oats. And one horse is not very good. But ever one has't to worrie, I am send this letter with the pennie I get to take to Sunday school Mother give me one So it took 3 week. Cause mother would think I better not ask for things from the the first Lady. But mother said you was an angle for doing so much for the poor. And I though that would be all rite this is some paper my teacher gave for Xmas. My add is

C.V.B.
Rushsyhania, Ohio

Mrs. Roosevelt’s response…

Dear C.V.B,

I am very glad that spring is on its way.I am afraid to tell you however that I don’t have very much cloth to send to you, though I will be able to have 5 yards of white linen sent to you.Unfortunately, it is difficult to be able to grant the requests of all the letters I receive. I try to give what I have as an American my self, and can certainly sympathies for what you are going through. My husband and I are doing our best to stay deeply in touch with the American people and do what benefits them the most. We are hoping that the economy is to improve in the near future. We’re all in this together. Good luck and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Roosevelt

Dear President and Mrs. Roosevelt.

The favor I am about to ask you is one which I consider a great one. I am asking if you could possibly send me a girl's bicycle. The school which I attend is very far and I am not very healthy I often get pains in my sides. My father only works two days a week and there are six in my family, it is impossible in almost every way that I can get a bicycle! I am in the eighth grade and am very fond of school. Sometimes I have to miss school on account of the walk so far. I have often thought things would pick up and father might be able to get me a bicycle, but instead they have grown worse. I assure you that the bicycle shall not be used as a pleasure but as a necessity.

I shall be waiting patiently, for my greatest wish to be granted, as I feel sure that you cannot and will not turn me down. Please try to send it to me.

I shall remain

Sincerely yours,
M. B.

Dear M.B.

I am very sorry to hear about your condition, though it is quite common lately. Unfortunately, I am not able to grant such a wish because there are so many wishes much like yours that I can’t answer all. During this time of great struggle, there is very little money to even donate food to starving children. We will however keep you on our minds and pray for your family. We expect that things can only get better from here. I can tell from the letter and the manner in which you wrote that you are a very intelligent girl and that your parents and teachers have done a very good job at teaching you your grammar.

We are very aware about what you and your family have to endure and are doing our best to turn the failing economy around so that we can all return to our lives.

Until then, sincerely

Mrs. Roosevelt

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt:

I am 13 years old and will be 14 the 27 of this month. I am a victim of a shut in. I have been sick ever since the 12 of July. And have a very lonely place to stay. My parence's are very poor people. I cant even go to school yet with the other kids. And doubt if I can this year. I have nothing I can do but set around and I get so lonely I don't know what to do. And if you want to cheer me up and make me one of the happies boys in the world just send me some money to get a cheap raido. Ihave got proof by the neighbors that I am sick and have nothing to do. My parence names is Mr. + Mrs. A. J. M. My name is F. M. I live at Kismet. Many, many thanks if you would cheer me up that way I wouldn't spend it for nothing but a radio. It would pass my lonely time a way so much faster. I only ask for a cheep one.

F. M.
Kismet, Kansas

P.S. If I had any thing to do I wouldent ask you of it. It will be highly appreached.

I am in the dust bowl. We didn't raise any crop this year. And we have to live off of the releif and theres no injoyment out of that. But were thankful for it. My mother is sick and under the doctor's care most of the time and my Grandma that lives with me is very poorly. And that keeps my heart broken all the time. And nothing to amuse myself with.

thanks alot

Dear F.M.

I am terribly sorry to hear about your dilemma. Unfortunately, we are not able to send you a radio. Money such as that is needed too much by homeless and starving people. You might be able to try whittling with some scrap wood and a knife if you have any of those materials. I’m sorry that I cant make your life more enjoyable, but we hope that the economy will soon be better so that you may be able to afford that radio some time soon.

Best of luck.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Roosevelt

-- Edited by Arthur on Sunday 7th of March 2010 02:48:21 PM

Justin BRAGA · Veteran Member

Photographic Essay of the Great Depression

To the President of the United States of America

Mr. President, I have been told that you have wished to see a series of my photographs symbolizing these hard times. All of them symbolize different things and different people and I hope you see the true meaning of depression in our nation.

This photograph shows the World’s Exchange Bank closed in 1931, just prior to you being sworn in. It was clear that during the 1920’s and leading up to you’re swearing into office, that there was a certain run on the bank s of this country. In fact, before you assumed the duties of the Presidency, an astounding 7,000 banks had shut down throughout the 1920’s. Of course this can be seen as an effect now as your decisions to remove the nation off of the gold standard and your decision for a temporary “bank holiday” however this image captures the destruction of our banking system leading us into the depression. It is important to remember the economic mistakes we made in 1920’s causing what is shown in the image so a massive run on the bank as such never takes place again.

Clearly, the Great Depression has thus far been desperate times. This image showing desperate candidates for jobs outside of an American Legion battling for jobs expresses the great desperation for capital, as many of these men in the photograph needed to put food on the table for families. Statistically, this image expresses the 35% unemployment in the nation in 1933 and the clear desperation for any such job being offered. I feel as if it is important for you to know this so when you are faced with job creating legislation, that you favor signing it despite criticism.

Mr. President, this is Bud Fields and his family. However Mr. Fields resembles many American families in a time of not only economic depression and unemployment, but concentration of wealth. When this photograph was taken in 1935, the United States saw times when many of the rich got richer and the poor got poorer in Lehman’s Terms. According the U.S. Bureau of the Census, in regards to distribution of income, the Wealthiest two-fifths held 72.6% of American capital, the middle one-fifth held 14.1% of American capital, while the poorest two-fifths held a dismal 13.3% of American capital. This is an astounding figure Mr. President, and based on my observations, this families falls somewhere in that lower 40% of our nation’s population. Recently you have been criticized on raising the income tax on the wealthy, but after seeing this image I hope that you realize that if doing so, families as poor as the Fields can be benefited I hope you do so for their own welfare and for the welfare of our nation’s poorest.

As you know Mr. President, the Dust Bowl in the middle of our nation has left this nation in an economic mess. This photograph however shows the frightening experiences that millions of Americans inhabiting the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado Kansas and New Mexico. You can see this family running for cover as the dust storm rolls in. 3.5 million have deserted their farms in this region and have migrated elsewhere while many have not been so luck and died of dust pneumonia from this ecological disaster. I hope you see the importance of this nation helping its own people in times of natural disaster being just as important as protecting this nation in foreign and war-related disaster.

As if the Dust Bowl itself weren’t enough of an ecological disaster, its forcing of people to migrate was as well. However people like this family depicted in the photograph had no choice but to migrate from the Dust Bowl Region to areas such as California. As you probably already know, 9 million acres of farm land were destroyed due to this disaster, and as I stated previously, 3.5 million Americans departed in finding better lives. However, just packing up and leaving wasn’t as easy as you can see based on this photograph. With many farm families such as those in the Dust Bowl Region being low income already due to overproduction, it is no wonder why these migrants who most likely lost everything they had are in distress living in a small tent or shack. Luckily however, your administration passed the Taylor-Grazing Act, which prevents overgrazing, and the overuse of land and natural resources in the West so hopefully an ecological disaster as such will never take place again in our nation.

Of all the photographs I have taken Mr. President showing desperation, this has to be one of the most stunning. Although this is 1924 Communist Campaign Poster, I would like you to know that during this depression, Communist membership has tripled in this country. Now although this photograph does not show desperation directly like some of my other ones, remember the Red Scare of the post-Great War Era and the communist raids led by then Attorney General A. Mitchell Palmer where 5,000 innocent communists were arrested. I would personally say, that knowing the history and current state of strong dissatisfaction in this country to radicals such as the Communist Party, that it be a bold act of desperation for numerous people during these hard times to follow such a radical affiliate. I call upon you to realize the need to solve our economic problems now before this country falls into the hands of radicals.

As a result of Labor’s right to organize under the authorization of the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, it is clear that strikes as in the photograph have become common. although this was all but a common strike of picketing, workers clearly in times of high concentration of wealth and cut wages, workers are demanding better treatment and thanks to your legislation they can. I realize you do not support worker strikes, however I wanted to make you aware that as a result of your legislation they were made possible.

In addition to the labor and strike issue, as a result of your legislative efforts to aid labor organization, I would like you to realize that through this photograph of workers guarding a window in Flint, Michigan at Fisher Body Plant that laborers are willing to resort to more aggressive strike tactics as a sign of the hard times. These new strikes that are “sit-down strikes” are new aggressive attempts by labor organizations such as the CIO and the United Auto Workers which involves workers blockading the building, therefore allowing neither owners nor management to enter. In fact in the same year as this photograph, that being 1936, a strikes like these took place at General Motor Plants in Atlanta, Georgia and Flint, Michigan, as well as at both Chrysler and Ford Motor Company Plants respectively.

Mr. President as a result of your failure to legalize anti-lynching, anti-poll tax, and overall anti-segregationist legislation, racial segregation has continued. As you can see its effects here in Durham, North Carolina I ask you to stop coinciding with your political gain by opposing such legislation that could catapult our nation into a post-racial world and follow the beliefs of your wife Eleanor. It is only fair to the Fourteenth Amendment’s “Equal Protection Clause” and true Social Justice that you stop this segregation from taking place.

In conclusion Mr. President, I have brought you a comparative set of photographs between a poor village on the island of Puerto Rico (upper left) and a squatter camp in California (lower right). Now although Puerto Rico is our stronghold, it is fair to say that Americans have always viewed us as economically superior to them. However, by these two photographs, I see equal poverty in both. I hope that you realize that economic disparity in our country today and the degradation of our quality of life due to this depression, and that you pass legislation to fix these problems and jump start our economy back into its rightful prosperity.

-- Edited by Justin BRAGA on Sunday 7th of March 2010 04:01:28 PM

-- Edited by Justin BRAGA on Sunday 7th of March 2010 04:02:06 PM

Matthew Wasilowski · Veteran Member

My dearest President and Mrs Roosevelt;

Just a few lines to let you know, I am in good health, whishing this letter will fined your all well.

Mrs and Pres. Roosevelt, in the first place I must tell you my name, O.C. - 14 years old.

I am writing to you Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, to ask if I may ask one question, but I must first tell you my story.

Well you see Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, I was doctering for a while, with out my Mother and Dad knowing it, in fact they don't know it yet, & I owe Dr. Forney, $7.50. I haven't any idea how to earn this amount, I was doctering for an infected arm. Every time I went the Dr. charged me $1.50, & I went 5 times.

Could you kindly please help me Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt. Please don't write to my parents about me owing this money. But if you will kindly help me I will greatly, & certainly appreciate it. If you help me Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, send my note or your letter, to this address.

O. C.
Milltown Public School
Milltown, N.J.

I will certinally appreate your help.

Let me tell you one more thing, Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, this summer aunt Joan, is going to take me on a vacation down at West Virginia, & while were going, I'll stop in and visit you, and then you can see who I am. Hows that?

Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, could you please send this amount by April 5. I'd like to pay this out, before my parents receive a bill from the Docters office. O.K. Please.

Sincerely, yours,
O. C
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Dear O.C:

First of all, Mr. Roosevelt and I are glad to hear you are in good health. We are sorry to hear about your problems. In these tough times, unfortunately, the government doesn’t have the money to help everyone. In pains my heart to see people, especially children, in trouble. So, I decided to give you $7.50 out of my own pocket. The only requirement is that when you go to West Virginia with your aunt you have to pay me and Mr. Roosevelt a visit. I think that is a fair deal.

I won’t tell your parents about your medical problems, however, you should tell them. You’re their child; they have the right to know when you’re in trouble. If one of my children was sick I would want to know if they were in danger. However, I’ll leave it to you to tell them.

Very sincerely yours,
Mrs. Roosevelt

Matthew Wasilowski · Veteran Member

STANTONVILLE TENN

DEAR MRS. PRESIDENT

I AM A LITTLE GIRL 5 YEARS OLD I HAVE A LITTLE BROTHER HE CALLS ME SISTIE I CALL HIM BUZZIE. AFTER YOUR LITTLE GRAND CHILDREN. I WISH I HAD A SHIRLEY TEMPLE DOLL. DADY CANT NOT BUY ONE

I LOVE YOU

P. A. C
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Dear P.A.C

I’m sorry to hear you can’t have a doll you want. Sorry, to say I can’t afford to buy you or anyone else toys. People around the U.S need much more than toys. Some need food and clothes. I hope one day you will have all the toys you want. Thank you for taking the time to write this letter.

P.S if you don’t understand something ask your mommy or daddy for help.

Very sincerely yours,
Mrs. Roosevelt

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Dear Parents of P.A.C

Your daughter sent me letter asking for a doll. I’m sure you know this as a five-year-old most likely can’t mail a letter on her own. With people around the U.S starving, I can’t waste money buy your daughter or anyone else toys. If you ever need food or clothes feel free to write me again.

Very sincerely yours,
Mrs. Roosevelt

Matthew Wasilowski · Veteran Member

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt

I am writing to you for some of your old soiled dresses if you have any. As I am a poor girl who has to stay out of school. On account of dresses & slips and a coat. I am in the seventh grade but I have to stay out of school because I have no books or clothes to ware. I am in need of dresses & slips and a coat very bad. If you have any soiled clothes that you don't want to ware I would be very glad to get them. But please do not let the news paper reporters get hold of this in any way and I will keep it from geting out here so there will be no one else to get hold of it. But do not let my name get out in the paper. I am thirteen years old.

Yours Truly,
Miss L. H.
Gravette, Ark.
R #3
c/o A. H.
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Dear Miss L. H.;

I do not have any old or spoiled dresses I can give to you. I am sorry but I donate all my old clothes to other charities. I will send you some money to buy new clothes. It is not much but you should be able to buy a used dress or two. Trust me; no newspaper will get a hold of this letter. I would never do that to someone who came to me in need.

Very sincerely yours,
Mrs. Roosevelt

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Dear Parents of Miss L. H.;

Your daughter sent me a letter requesting some worn dresses and coats so she can go to school. Since I didn’t have any clothes I gave her some money to buy some used clothes. Please, use this money to buy her clothes so she can go to school. You have my sincerest wishes in these tough times. I hope one day your daughter will have all the clothes she wants.

Very sincerely yours,
Mrs. Roosevelt

courtney · Veteran Member

Mr. President, I have traveled the country and i have taken pictures for you to look at. These are first hand accounts of the horrible time we are going throuigh rite now as we speek.

“Police stand guard outside the entrance to New York's closed World Exchange Bank, March 20, 1931. Not only did bank failures wipe out people's savings, they also undermined the ideology of thrift.”
- This image shows the road the banking system is going in the start of the depression.

Unemployed men vying for jobs at the American Legion Employment Bureau in Los Angeles during the Great Depression.
- So many men have lost their jobs and have families to support. They are in desperate need to find a job and as we can see in this picture it is a matter of life or death.

World War I veterans block the steps of the Capital during the Bonus March, July 5, 1932 (Underwood and Underwood). In the summer of 1932, in the midst of the Great Depression, World War I veterans seeking early payment of a bonus scheduled for 1945 assembled in Washington to pressure Congress and the White House. Hoover resisted the demand for an early bonus. Veterans benefits took up 25% of the 1932 federal budget. Even so, as the Bonus Expeditionary Force swelled to 60,000 men, the president secretly ordered that its members be given tents, cots, army rations and medical care.
In July, the Senate rejected the bonus 62 to 18. Most of the protesters went home, aided by Hoover's offer of free passage on the rails. Ten thousand remained behind, among them a hard core of Communists and other organizers. On the morning of July 28, forty protesters tried to reclaim an evacuated building in downtown Washington scheduled for demolition. The city's police chief, Pellham Glassford, sympathetic to the marchers, was knocked down by a brick. Glassford's assistant suffered a fractured skull. When rushed by a crowd, two other policemen opened fire. Two of the marchers were killed.
- World War I Veterans were in rough shape during the time of the depression. Many lost homes, jobs, and were still recovering from war. They were in need of help and they wanted to let you know that they do not think it is fair that they can fight for this country and lose everything in return!

Bud Fields and his family. Alabama. 1935 or 1936. Photographer: Walker Evans.
- It is extremely difficult for these families to survive in this ugly depression of ours. They are in dire need of clothing and simple necessities. This is not something that can just be swept under the rug.

Squatter's Camp, Route 70, Arkansas, October, 1935.
Photographer: Ben Shahn
- I don’t know about you but this would not make me want to get up in the morning if I lived in a house like this. Families had no money and would have to construct their own shelter. This has to be the most uncomfortable way of living.

Farmer and sons, dust storm, Cimarron County, Oklahoma, 1936. Photographer: Arthur Rothstein.
The drought that helped cripple agriculture in the Great Depression was the worst in the climatological history of the country. By 1934 it had dessicated the Great Plains, from North Dakota to Texas, from the Mississippi River Valley to the Rockies. Vast dust storms swept the region.
- The Dust storm was one of the most horrific natural disasters ever to hit the United States.

Part of the daily lineup outside the State Employment Service Office. Memphis, Tennessee. June 1938. Photographer: Dorothea Lange.
- Men would wait for hours at a time to try and find jobs to support their families !

Relief line waiting for commodities, San Antonio, Texas. March 1939. Photographer: Russell Lee.
- People wait everyday to receive food and every day necessities just to survive. There is not enough to help everyone and this is a major problem. More people need to be taken in and cared for.

Man in hobo jungle killing turtle to make soup, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Sept. 1939. Photographer: John Vachon.
- People find the simplest things and use them to survive. You may think that this man lives on a deserted island without any place to go get food but the reality of it is, is that he cannot afford any other means of food. So he resorts to killing a turtle.

Durham, North Carolina, May 1940. Photographer: Jack Delano. "At the bus station."
- Not only did people suffer economic problems, but racism is still a huge problem. Blacks are getting the lowest of the low and deserve to be treated better during this time of hardship.

-- Edited by courtney on Sunday 7th of March 2010 07:32:26 PM

Charlene · Veteran Member

I tarnished Eleanor's immaculate image.

Bangor, Mich.,
April 27, 1935.

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt:

I am appealing to you because I know you might be able to help me. I graduate this year and I haven't enough money to buy a dress. I give all I earn for food for the family.

I have been worried and this is the only solution I could come to. I need a light dress and as I am quite little I would need about size 14 or 15 in dresses. I would think it was the grace of God if I received just a plain little graduation dress.

I'll have to get along without white shoes although I've always craved a pair of pumps size 51/2 or 5's that I never will get until I get a job which I will work very hard to get.

If I had a lot of money I would take up a nurses course and work for charity. Just to get the pleasure of healing people.

Graduate May 28, "35"

P.S. It's only because I hate to go on the stage with the other girls in my shabby dress. My father works when he is able.

Your Pleaing Friend
Miss E.B.
Bangor, Michigan

Dear Miss E.B.,

I'm joyed at the news of your graduation. Education is indeed important and completing education at such a level is quite a achievement indeed. While I wish to provide you the most beautiful dress for the reception, unfortunately, I cannot meet such a request due to a vast number of similar requests. Instead of wearing a beautiful dress, wear your flamboyant colors of accomplishment with pride. Don't let your shabby dress hide your true colors. And remember, most of your friends are in the same situation.

Regarding your financial situation, I suggest you get in touch with the National Youth Administration or the Works Progress Administration. The WPA is offering employment to women in various of medical and educational fields.

Very sincerely yours,

Eleanor Roosevelt

--

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt,

I am a senior in high school this year and expect to graduate may the thirty-first. My daddy is sixty-five years old, a poor farmer and isn't able to supply the necessary articles which graduation calls for. I am determined to get an education, so that I can help him in the very near future. I am asking you to send me, out of your personal funds thirty-five dollars ($35) to purchase these things such as invitations, class ring, graduation dress and shoes and other small articles.

In September I'll be prepared for College and will need some help in financial conditions as well as suggestions as to which college a poor girl should attend. Send only enough in September for my freshman year in College, and maybe the next year times will be better.

If you will take notice of my letter and answer as soon as possible, it will be highly appreciated, for without help I can go no further into the step of education, nor can I reach the requirements of a high school graduate. I thank you.

For reference you may refer to Rev. J. Knight, pastor of the Indian Bayou Methodist Church, Indian Bayou, Louisiana,

Sincerely yours,
J. R. D.

Dear J.R.D,

While I'm overjoyed at the news of your graduation and happy that you decided to continue your education; unfortunately, I cannot not meet your request due to an onslaught of similar requests. There are thousands of young adults stuck in the same situation and while I wish to grant all your wishes, it's an impossible. I advise you or your father to contact the either the National Youth Administration, the Department of Labor, the United States Employment Service, or the Works Progress Administration. I'm sure you'll find a job to meet your financial needs.

Sincerely yours,

Eleanor Roosevelt

--

Dear Mrs. F. Roosevelt,

I suppose you'll be kind of surprised to hear from a poor little girl. I am ten years old. On Christmas eve I had wished for Santa Clause to come but my mama said the chimney was blocked & he couldn't come, so I had a poor Christmas. I was expecting Santa to bring me some things.

I lost my daddy when I was two years old.

I have read in the papers how good you are to the poor and thought maybe you can help me some. I will appreciate it all my life.

To-day we have started school from our Christmas vacation & all the children talk about how many presants Santa has brought them & I felt so bad cause I had nothing to say. I guess that is all. My address is

R#2, Box 7
Mason, Wisconsin

Yours truly,
M. A.

My dearest M.A.,

I'm sorry to hear about the death of your father. You and I share a similar characteristic; my father is also no longer here with us. It's also unfortunate to hear about your situation this Christmas. These hard times are affecting us all, from Chicago to Paris. We are all having a poor Christmas. Even Santa Claus himself is experiencing these hard times as his toy makers are becoming jobless as well. If your mother is jobless, I suggest her to get in touch with the Works Progress Administration, Department of Labor, or the United States Employment Service.

That chimney will be soon unclogged and you'll experience better Christmases for years to come.

Yours sincerely,

Eleanor Roosevelt

--

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt,

You are truly the Santa Claus of your day.

Ever yours,

CSD

My Dearest CSD,

Yes, yes i'am.

Sincerely Yours,

Eleanor Roosevelt

felicity · Veteran Member

Dear Mr. President,
My superiors have told me you are interested in pursuing some of the pictures I have collected during my investigations into the effects of the Depression on everyday Americans. I am honored you have chosen me for this prestigious job, but I feel the need to remind everyone these pictures are more important than I could ever aspire to be, and that the people whose stories they represent need to be heard and addressed by our government.
Most humbly yours,
Felicity Saucier

Legion Employment Bureau Pic

This picture depicts the coil of chaos that unfurls every time the American Legion Employment Bureau is able to distribute jobs. As I’m sure you know, the unemployment reached a staggering 25% of the workforce in 1933, not only crippling the American economy, but the American family as well. These men are jammed together, elbows flying and eyes wild, in the hopes of securing a job to support both themselves and their families and to salvage a piece of their integrity the Great Depression stripped away. This picture symbolizes the struggle to stay afloat in these tough economic times, and the crippling desperation of the unemployed in the United States.

Oklahoma Dust Bowl Shot

Mr. Roosevelt, this picture is a clear representation of the devastation caused by the “Dust Bowl” in our country. These boys and their father are running into the house in order to evade the wall of solid dust ominously rolling their way. It was taken in Cimarron Country, Oklahoma during the year of 1936 and manages to show in a single snapshot the way the Dust blocks out everything and stretches from the endless plains of the ground to the rolling heights of the sky. These black blizzards as they are called are raping our land and destroying the futures of our young generation. Action must be taken immediately!

Turtle Soup

The dire straits caused by the Great Depression have changed people's lives in ways that could not have imagined possible before this crisis. Men and women have been forced to take to railraods for shelter and transportation, eat whatever comes their way, and leave put aside their pride to continue to live in some modicum of comfort. This photograph is a great representation of the plight facing America; the fact most families cannot afford to feed themselves or their families.

Bud Fields

Dear Mr. President, this picture is a documentation of the Fields family, and furthermore, an insight into American families everywhere. Out of the plethora of pictures I have harvested during my travels this is the picture that stands out in my memory above all the others. The degree of poverty and suffering these wretched people are dealing with is horrifying. Their ill-fitting clothes are caked in mud and dirt and hanging off their bodies due to malnutrition*. This picture is a pictoral example of a family breaking under the pressures of the great depression.

Matthew Wasilowski · Veteran Member

This photo shows men trying to find work. You can see it is a chaotic scene as many need jobs to feed their families. It is important to remember that there are people in our country still without work and food.

This photo shows a dust storm destroying crops in Oklahoma. The dust storm would cause many families to lose all of their crops, which in these tough economic times could be terrible. It is important to remember we must help farmers.

This photo shows a woman who just sold her tent she lived in for food. Notice she has two small children. Remember the crisis is affecting many children too.

This is the yard of a sharecropper. Sharecroppers during this crisis lost their land because they could afford the land. Remember, these sharecroppers need help too so after the crisis they can still have their land.

A Family in poverty. Notice how elderly the woman is and how young the boy is. This crisis affects people of all ages.

This photo shows two men who left their homes to travel the U.S looking for work. I do not know if their homes were foreclosed upon or not, but, it is important to remember that people will move across the world for work.

This photo shows a strike in New York City. Remember, if people don’t earn enough to survive the workers will be willing to go on strike.

This is a photo of a man in a warehouse. He most likely lost his home and now travels from place to place in search of a new home. Remember, people will become ‘squatters’ to survive.

This shows a make-shift house made out of scrap metal. Remember that everyone needs a form of shelter.

This shows a man who just found a turtle and made turtle soup. This could be the only food he will eat for a while. Remember, people in the U.S are starving.

theaa · Veteran Member

Granette, Ark.
Nov. 6, 1936
Dear Mrs. Roosevelt
I am writing to you for some of your old soiled dresses if you have any. As I am a poor girl who has to stay out of school. On account of dresses & slips and a coat. I am in the seventh grade but I have to stay out of school because I have no books or clothes to ware. I am in need of dresses & slips and a coat very bad. If you have any soiled clothes that you don't want to ware I would be very glad to get them. But please do not let the news paper reporters get hold of this in any way and I will keep it from geting out here so there will be no one else to get hold of it. But do not let my name get out in the paper. I am thirteen years old.
Yours Truly,
Miss L. H.
Gravette, Ark.
R #3
c/o A. H.

Miss L.H. and Parents,
I truly sympathize with your troubles that you are facing during this troubling time. Americans across the country aren’t receiving the essentials that they need and often aren’t receiving the amount of help that they could use. I wish I could give every person in America what they need to survive during this troubling time, but of course, it is impossible to reach out to every person. As a young girl, you shouldn’t be held back by your financial shortcomings and not have the ability to be educated or buy books. Your education will help you a lot in the future and you should try to take up any opportunity to read. I will send several books to your home so you can continue reading. Try to also pick up some newspapers and become more informed in what is going on in the surrounding country. To your parents, I can only fathom how hard it is to survive in this country. Just remember that things can only become better and new opportunities are arising every day. I wish your family prosperity and good health for your future.
Sincerely,
Eleanor Roosevelt

Nov. 30, 1937
Springfield, Mass
Dear Mrs. Roosevelt
I am a girl sixteen years old. Last May I beg my father to buy an electric refrigerator for mother on Mother's day. We had talked about buying one with her. She thought it was not a very wise thing to do, because we could not afford to pay cash. I wanted it so very bad that my father bought it. He agreed to pay monthly payments of seven dollars and twenty two cents. What mother had said proved to be right. For two weeks after we bought the refrigerator I took sick with a serious kidney ailment which confined me to my bed from May twenty until Nov. twenty-second. I am just recovering from a delicate operation. I came home from the hospital Nov. eighth and my father was layed off after working for the railroad fifteen years. Many a girl of my age is hoping that on Christmas morn they will find a wrist watch, a handbag, or even a fur coat. But my one and only wish is to have father and mother spend a happy Christmas. Mrs. Roosevelt I am asking of you a favor which can make this wish come true. I am asking you to keep up our payments until my father gets back to work as a Christmas gift to me. Though father worked part time for quite a while we never lost anything for the lack of payments. If the refrigerator was taken away from us father and mother would think it a disgrace.
I close hoping with all my heart that my letter will be consider. Mrs. Roosevelt you may rest assure that I have learnt my lesson.
I am respectfully yours
J.B.
Springfield, Mass

Dear J.B.,
Your story touches me deeply and I want to help reach out to you. Unfortunately, it is not in my power to supply you with the money you need to pay off the refrigerator. Your determination to help your parents and want for a happy Christmas time is admirable and you should keep to that goal. There are thousands of people just like you throughout America that are going through the same things as you so remember that you are not alone. Also, it is nothing to be ashamed about that you could not afford to keep your refridgerator and your parents should know that. As a family, you are trying as ahrd as you can to make it during these tough times. Always remember that it is getting better with time and to always look for the future.
Sincerely,
Eleanor Roosevelt

Mason, Wisconsin
January 9, 1934
Dear Mrs. F. Roosevelt,
I suppose you'll be kind of surprised to hear from a poor little girl. I am ten years old. On Christmas eve I had wished for Santa Clause to come but my mama said the chimney was blocked & he couldn't come, so I had a poor Christmas. I was expecting Santa to bring me some things.
I lost my daddy when I was two years old.
I have read in the papers how good you are to the poor and thought maybe you can help me some. I will appreciate it all my life.
To-day we have started school from our Christmas vacation & all the children talk about how many presants Santa has brought them & I felt so bad cause I had nothing to say. I guess that is all. My address is
R#2, Box 7
Mason, Wisconsin
Yours truly,
M. A.

Dear M.A.,
You are not alone. Your mother is doing the best she can in supporting you as a single mother and even though Santa did not visit you this year, you are still appreciated and loved. There must be other children at school who did not receive presents either. There is also nothing to be ashamed of because you did not receive any gifts. As long as you are healthy and with loved ones, you are full with presents. And there is always next year, Santa will probably make up for this year coming the next!
Sincerely,
Eleanor Roosevelt

felicity · Veteran Member

Squatter's Camp, Route 70, Arkansas, October, 1935.

This particular picture preserves the plight facing the millions of people who were displaced by our economic collapse. This shabby, shoddy lean to is meant to shelter men and women from the elements, but this shack barely looks as if could withstand a gentle breeze. It is supported by a few poles and prayers; however, this hut is not unique or unusual. I have seen so many in my travels I have lost count, yet each time it pulls at my heartstrings. My heart goes out to these poor souls, destitute and depressed. This specific picture was shot in 1935 in Arkansas and depicts one of the many "Squatter Camps" which simulanteously dot and mar our landscape.

"Migrant Mother"

Perhaps one of my most famous works, Migrant Mother depicts the stresses of our depression on indivuals and the feelings of inadequacy plauging parents across our nation. Worry is clearly evident by her furrowed brow and the hardships casued by the Dust Bowl are symbolized by the dirt and grime coating both her face and well-worn clothing. Mr. President, the migrant workers of our country are suffering more than we can even begin to understand. We must help them. We must restore the faith of our broken people. In this camp alone, over 2500 people were homeless, 2,500 out of the 4 million displaced citizens struggling to find the most basic needs human existince requires.

"Porch"

This picture represents an entirely different facet of Americans affected by the Great Depression; sharecroppers. Mr. President, these slave descendents were in terrible conditions before, but as this picture shpws their quality of living has decreased even more. This porch is literally in shambles; the floor boards are rotting and the railing is brokenn and lying haphazardly on the deck. It is amazing to think such poor conditions are possible in a state of our own (Alabama). Yhis portarit almost looks as if it capturing the effects of an earthquake in a 3rd world country, rather than poverty stricken American home.

New Mexican Highway

Taken in 1936, this picture is evidence of one family's four year migration across America. The family consisted of nine children, parents, and a sickly infant in need of serious, and immediate help. After leaving Iowa in hope of a better life, they were struck with the cold reality it is hard no matter where you go in America. These bone-weary people had not a cent to their name or a speck of food to get through the day. They are a testament to the indomitable spirit of human beings.

Drought in Cali

As im sure you know Mr. President, the "Dust Bowl" is wreaking havoc on both America's landscape and crops. Many of the people who are represented by this portarit lost most of their worldly possesions due tot he unforgiving weather and its wide-reaching repercussions. This refugee camp is located near Holtville CA, and is "home" to the souls of men and women who are moving around despreately in search of work. In conclusion, this pictures represents those displaced by the "Dust Bowl".

felicity · Veteran Member

Upstairs Bedroom

This picture is an effort to try and record the tragides that befell the youth of America. I took this picture in a drafty Chicago bedroom; twol little girls are snuggled under a thread-bare blanket underneath a rickety ceiling and bare lightbulb. This picture is the most recent of the ones I compiled, since it was shot in 1941, which goes to show that the Depression is still devestating our economy in the new decade.

AWHBRY · Veteran Member

Granette, Ark. Nov. 6, 1936 Dear Mrs. Roosevelt I am writing to you for some of your old soiled dresses if you have any. As I am a poor girl who has to stay out of school. On account of dresses & slips and a coat. I am in the seventh grade but I have to stay out of school because I have no books or clothes to ware. I am in need of dresses & slips and a coat very bad. If you have any soiled clothes that you don't want to ware I would be very glad to get them. But please do not let the news paper reporters get hold of this in any way and I will keep it from geting out here so there will be no one else to get hold of it. But do not let my name get out in the paper. I am thirteen years old. Yours Truly, Miss L. H. Gravette, Ark. R #3 c/o A. H.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Dearest Child,

My heart goes out to you indefinitely. No one should have to go through not having enough clothes or books for simply an education, nevertheless a child! Not only will i make it one of my personal top priorities to get you both proper clothing and the books you need, I will also make it a goal of mine to help others such as yourself. Now will send you enough clothing for the year, and for the following years my husband remains in office i will continue to do so, if the need be. As for the books i will ensure that you get the standard and throw in one for fun, one to read on your own. Now tell me little one, are there many other where you come from in such a need, either boy or girl? If so please take the time to write.

Stay in high spirits, relief and the sound of prosperity will soon ring through your ears. This i do so promise.

Best of wishes, and hope to hear from you soon.

Most Sincerely,

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt.

- - - -- - -- - - - - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear President and Mrs. Roosevelt.

The favor I am about to ask you is one which I consider a great one. I am asking if you could possibly send me a girl's bicycle. The school which I attend is very far and I am not very healthy I often get pains in my sides. My father only works two days a week and there are six in my family, it is impossible in almost every way that I can get a bicycle! I am in the eighth grade and am very fond of school. Sometimes I have to miss school on account of the walk so far. I have often thought things would pick up and father might be able to get me a bicycle, but instead they have grown worse. I assure you that the bicycle shall not be used as a pleasure but as a necessity.

I shall be waiting patiently, for my greatest wish to be granted, as I feel sure that you cannot and will not turn me down. Please try to send it to me.

I shall remain

Sincerely yours,
M. B.

Dearest Little M.B.,

I am so very excited to hear that you are so enthused about attending school and that you thoroughly enjoy it as you do. I am touched by your story as my conscious will not allow me to ignore your precious little soul. So by your request, within the next month, I will have a girl’s bike sent to you. In addition I hope to have a doctor some by and what the reason may be for your side pains. No worries, he will be paid before he reaches your door.

I do so very hope they you grow stronger and can continue your schooling. The best of luck to you and your family.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt.

Milltown, N.J.
March 25, 1935

My dearest President and Mrs Roosevelt;

Just a few lines to let you know, I am in good health, whishing this letter will fined your all well.

Mrs and Pres. Roosevelt, in the first place I must tell you my name, O.C. - 14 years old.

I am writing to you Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, to ask if I may ask one question, but I must first tell you my story.

Well you see Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, I was doctering for a while, with out my Mother and Dad knowing it, in fact they don't know it yet, & I owe Dr. Forney, $7.50. I haven't any idea how to earn this amount, I was doctering for an infected arm. Every time I went the Dr. charged me $1.50, & I went 5 times.

Could you kindly please help me Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt. Please don't write to my parents about me owing this money. But if you will kindly help me I will greatly, & certainly appreciate it. If you help me Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, send my note or your letter, to this address.

O. C.
Milltown Public School
Milltown, N.J.

I will certinally appreate your help.

Let me tell you one more thing, Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, this summer aunt Joan, is going to take me on a vacation down at West Virginia, & while were going, I'll stop in and visit you, and then you can see who I am. Hows that?

Pres. and Mrs Roosevelt, could you please send this amount by April 5. I'd like to pay this out, before my parents receive a bill from the Docters office. O.K. Please.

Sincerely, yours,
O. C

My Dear O.C.,

It seems you have gotten yourself into quite the little pickle. Though I do most sincerely sympathize with you I am sorry to say that I cannot comply to your wish. I receive many similar requests, some more dire than others. Although your predicament is regrettable I must save my expenses for the more extreme requests. I can almost assure you that although you may unfortunately face some small punishment your parents will understand. You have nothing to fear but fear itself as my husband would say. So hang in there darling, and the sun will shine brightly once more.

Stay in good health.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt

sorrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrry for the formatting i do not know what happened

AWHBRY · Veteran Member

oh ha nvm formatting fine

AWHBRY · Veteran Member

All of these men the 60,000 of them seek their bonus pensions. They are the veterans of WWI and their purpose of marching on the white house on this day March 25, 1932, was to pressure the President as well as congress to cut away the time limit on their pensions. Though these men may be past their prime they are still very important not only because they are American citizens but because they were Americans who fought for a former president in your place. They represented America’s strength and ability but now, after returning home for only but a few years they face a severe economic depression, one that in the business world is not likely to hire them for many of physically incapable. They are important, for they are the example you need to make right for it is the precedent for more to come.

This second image is that of “Bud Fields” and his family. This picture provides for a mixture of emotions, I believe a different one resonating from each person within the picture. I suppose it shows how all members of a family bear some burden or another. The living conditions are not recommendable; the floor is barely covered by enough wood, most likely the perfect place for rodents to stow away. Everyone is barefoot, shoes should be worn – this is another example of not enough money. Let’s start from left to right. The mother looks tough though worn. She carries her third child, but she is not very clean, her feet seem sore and bent out of shape and her dress old. She signifies the lack of wealth through insufficient clothing and health. In the middle stands a tall miserable looking boy who perhaps has polio or some medical condition wherein he requires a cane, again showing malnutrition and poor healthcare. Then sits and emaciated father with no shirt and a handkerchief – implying perhaps that he has been working all day. In front of him sits a near nude child who is about four and should have some pants to protect himself. Lastly sits the old mother presumably, the one who takes care of the house ultimately while her daughter tries to raise the children. This is a poor, poor existence, one which even more unfortunately was commonplace.

This odd picture implies that people were living in homemade shacks, very unsteady at that. This small structure would not protect them from much and was more than insufficient.People were trying so hard to maintain their own shelter so much so that they were reduced to this.

This photo exhibits the severity of the drought; it was taken in Oklahoma, 1936. In the heartland of America layers and layers of dust killed not only the plants, trees, and crops but people as well. Sandstorms would blow up and could entirely swallow a small shack such as this, consuming all lives within. The two boys and their older brother walk back to their house already half covered.

Because of the drought immigrants such as this mother here were unable to do their job which means they didn’t get paid and so they were stuck. Many of them like this migrant mother just settled down where they were in hopes for a second chance or some miracle. She is troubled. Many immigrants did have families and even during this had to take care of them.

This picture exemplifies the strain of living during the great depression. Some weren’t even so lucky such as this family who converted a freight car into a house. Desperate times call for desparate measures, such as this. They live in an old wooden box meant to have shipped goods and now they have grounded into a barren wasteland simply for their shelter.

This here shows the simplistic, kitchen of a share cropper. One with no electricity. It is very empty with the exception of a small wooden chare and stove. They had the bear minimum of what was necessary to live.

This image is so ironic. You have two men, who were part of the near 2.5 billion who abandoned their homes in the south and west during the great depression, walking down a dirt road in search of a better life than the one they have come to know. And they walk passed a sign telling them to relax and take the train, but they can’t relax because they don’t have the money,otherwise they wouldn’t be leaving.

Not only does this exhibit the segregation of the time but it specifically points out that because blacks were limited in society as it were and now they were being hit hard especially for now whites wanted some of their jobs the crissi was so bad. It shows not one person in the street at all, like a chost town. The depression was affecting all levels/peoples/cultures of societies in America and around the world.

This is a refreshing breath of air in a time that was so segregated, This plants the seed of hope and begins a new chapter however slowly it may be written it had begun on a larger scale. It is especially surprising to see a black male with not a white man, but a white woman. Now, more than ever women were advocating their beliefs and some like this woman here joined integrationist unions!

AWHBRY · Veteran Member

great my images weren't put in -.-
.... mr everette is it allright if i email this to you

theaa · Veteran Member

my images weren't being put into the post either, so i emailed it to you.

Charlene · Veteran Member

theaa wrote:
my images weren't being put into the post either, so i emailed it to you.

AWHBRY wrote:

great my images weren't put in -.-
.... mr everette is it allright if i email this to you

I know this is extremely off-topic, but I would avoid using the editor. If you want to place pictures in your post, this'll work:

[i m g]insert picture url here[/i m g]

Just remove the spaces.

Upload the desired picture into an image hosting website like Photobucket or Imageshack and copy and paste the link between [i m g] and [/ i m g]. Really simple.

Now I shall sulk back to my corner.

mre · Senior Member

Charlene wrote:

theaa wrote:
my images weren't being put into the post either, so i emailed it to you.

AWHBRY wrote:

great my images weren't put in -.-
.... mr everette is it allright if i email this to you

I know this is extremely off-topic, but I would avoid using the editor. If you want to place pictures in your post, this'll work:

[i m g]insert picture url here[/i m g]

Just remove the spaces.

Upload the desired picture into an image hosting website like Photobucket or Imageshack and copy and paste the link between [i m g] and [/ i m g]. Really simple.

Now I shall sulk back to my corner.

Thanks Charlene! Corner? No way!

Cara · Veteran Member

Kismet, Kansas
Nov. 3, 1937

Dear Mrs. Rosevelt:

I am 13 years old and will be 14 the 27 of this month. I am a victim of a shut in. I have been sick ever since the 12 of July. And have a very lonely place to stay. My parence's are very poor people. I cant even go to school yet with the other kids. And doubt if I can this year. I have nothing I can do but set around and I get so lonely I don't know what to do. And if you want to cheer me up and make me one of the happies boys in the world just send me some money to get a cheap raido. Ihave got proof by the neighbors that I am sick and have nothing to do. My parence names is Mr. + Mrs. A. J. M. My name is F. M. I live at Kismet. Many, many thanks if you would cheer me up that way I wouldn't spend it for nothing but a radio. It would pass my lonely time a way so much faster. I only ask for a cheep one.

F. M.
Kismet, Kansas

P.S. If I had any thing to do I wouldent ask you of it. It will be highly appreached.

I am in the dust bowl. We didn't raise any crop this year. And we have to live off of the releif and theres no injoyment out of that. But were thankful for it. My mother is sick and under the doctor's care most of the time and my Grandma that lives with me is very poorly. And that keeps my heart broken all the time. And nothing to amuse myself with.

thanks alot

Dear F.M.,

First of all, I would like to thank you for sending you letter to me. One of my goals as First Lady of our fine country is to stay in touch with the citizens of our fine nation. As for your situation, I am so sorry that you are suffering from an illness and I do sincerely wish you a speedy recovery. On that note, I would like to come vist your family, and perhaps we could eat dinner together. I know that you are living on relief so I would take care of all the details and such. I would like to gain a greater insight as to what life in your shoes is like so that my husband and I can better help you and those living like your family. I can bring a radio for your family to share because I believe that all should have access to news so that they can maintain a sense of awareness of whats going on in their nation and so that they can be informed voters and members of your community. In the mean time, have a conversation or two with your grandmother. She has lived through some amazing events in our country's history and think about how you can help our nation become something you'd like to see it become.

Hope to hear from you soon,

Eleanor Roosevelt

Mason, Wisconsin
January 9, 1934

Dear Mrs. F. Roosevelt,

I suppose you'll be kind of surprised to hear from a poor little girl. I am ten years old. On Christmas eve I had wished for Santa Clause to come but my mama said the chimney was blocked & he couldn't come, so I had a poor Christmas. I was expecting Santa to bring me some things.

I lost my daddy when I was two years old.

I have read in the papers how good you are to the poor and thought maybe you can help me some. I will appreciate it all my life.

To-day we have started school from our Christmas vacation & all the children talk about how many presants Santa has brought them & I felt so bad cause I had nothing to say. I guess that is all. My address is

R#2, Box 7
Mason, Wisconsin

Yours truly,
M. A.

Dear M.A.

I'm very sorry that Santa was unable to make it to your house this Christmas. While I would love to send all of the children in the world as many toys and presents as they could ask for, there is no way I could do so. My heart, however, does indeed go out to you. I would like you to keep two things in mind however. The first is that no matter what others say, whether it be about the presents they got or something directly to you, your happiness is completely in your hands. How people's words affect you is your own decision, even if you are just a little girl. One day you're going to grow up to be a strong American woman who can do anything you can dream of. You've been lucky enough to be born into the land of opportunity. The other thing I would like to recommend is instead of lamenting over a lack of presents, you take advantage of the resources around you. For example, if one of the things you had hoped Santa would bring was book, go take a look for any libraries in your area. I am a firm believer in the power of education and literacy as tools of advancement in our society and I believe that a being able to read a good book, borrowed or owned, is one of the best gifts around.

Best of luck in everything you try,

Eleanor Roosevelt

Bangor, Mich.,
April 27, 1935.

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt:

I am appealing to you because I know you might be able to help me. I graduate this year and I haven't enough money to buy a dress. I give all I earn for food for the family.

I have been worried and this is the only solution I could come to. I need a light dress and as I am quite little I would need about size 14 or 15 in dresses. I would think it was the grace of God if I received just a plain little graduation dress.

I'll have to get along without white shoes although I've always craved a pair of pumps size 51/2 or 5's that I never will get until I get a job which I will work very hard to get.

If I had a lot of money I would take up a nurses course and work for charity. Just to get the pleasure of healing people.

Graduate May 28, "35"

P.S. It's only because I hate to go on the stage with the other girls in my shabby dress. My father works when he is able.

Your Pleaing Friend
Miss E.B.
Bangor, Michigan

Dear Miss E.B.,

I am very sorry to hear of your current situation though I am very happy you wrote me. Because of the shear amount of letters I receive, there is no way I could ever fulfill all of the requests, though I do wish to offer you some wisdom. You say that you are embarrassed to go on stage with your "shabby" dress because you do not wish to stand with the other girls, though look at if from a different angle. The fact you are graduating from high school is amazing in its self and I'm sure your parents are incredibly proud of this alone. Years from now, you won't remember what you were wearing, who you were standing next to, or anything like that, but you will remember the feeling of getting that diploma in your hand during the ceremony. You will remember that years ago, many women never had this opportunity and how lucky you are that you were able to do such things. I appreciate your industrious spirit and your devotion to your family. These are qualities that I wish all Americans had. To leave you with one thing, always remember, " It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness."

Sincerely yours,
Eleanor Roosevelt

PatriciaC · Member

Bangor, Mich.,
April 27, 1935.

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt:

I am appealing to you because I know you might be able to help me. I graduate this year and I haven't enough money to buy a dress. I give all I earn for food for the family.

I have been worried and this is the only solution I could come to. I need a light dress and as I am quite little I would need about size 14 or 15 in dresses. I would think it was the grace of God if I received just a plain little graduation dress.

I'll have to get along without white shoes although I've always craved a pair of pumps size 51/2 or 5's that I never will get until I get a job which I will work very hard to get.

If I had a lot of money I would take up a nurses course and work for charity. Just to get the pleasure of healing people.

Graduate May 28, "35"

P.S. It's only because I hate to go on the stage with the other girls in my shabby dress. My father works when he is able.

Your Pleaing Friend
Miss E.B.
Bangor, Michigan

Dear Miss E.B,

I assure you I can try to help in every way I can. You can still work for charity in your spare time and taking up nurse’s course is a wonderful and ambitious idea. I have a wonderful dress that I thought of as soon as you explained what you wanted and I hope you like it. I also have an old pair of pumps in a 5 ½ that are still in pretty good shape. Please tell your father I’m sorry he cannot find a steady job and I’m praying for your family. Congratulations on graduating, it’ll be such an exciting night for you. Work hard to get that job and work hard to become a nurse. Hope everything fits well.

Yours truly,

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt

Granette, Ark.
Nov. 6, 1936

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt

I am writing to you for some of your old soiled dresses if you have any. As I am a poor girl who has to stay out of school. On account of dresses & slips and a coat. I am in the seventh grade but I have to stay out of school because I have no books or clothes to ware. I am in need of dresses & slips and a coat very bad. If you have any soiled clothes that you don't want to ware I would be very glad to get them. But please do not let the news paper reporters get hold of this in any way and I will keep it from geting out here so there will be no one else to get hold of it. But do not let my name get out in the paper. I am thirteen years old.

Yours Truly,
Miss L. H.
Gravette, Ark.
R #3
c/o A. H.

Dear Miss L. H,

I promise your name will not get out in the paper, this good be our little secret. I would be glad to give you my old spoiled clothes. I have a couple dresses, two coast and a couple slips I was going to give away anyway. I also have some others I will send your way as well possibly for your mother or another sister. If they do you no good please give them to someone they will help. I wish I could help you wish your book situation but I don’t own any 7^th grade books. My best regards go to you and your family in your hopes to finding some. Education is the best thing for you. Hope you look smashing in these dresses.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt

Nov. 30, 1937
Springfield, Mass

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt

I am a girl sixteen years old. Last May I beg my father to buy an electric refrigerator for mother on Mother's day. We had talked about buying one with her. She thought it was not a very wise thing to do, because we could not afford to pay cash. I wanted it so very bad that my father bought it. He agreed to pay monthly payments of seven dollars and twenty two cents. What mother had said proved to be right. For two weeks after we bought the refrigerator I took sick with a serious kidney ailment which confined me to my bed from May twenty until Nov. twenty-second. I am just recovering from a delicate operation. I came home from the hospital Nov. eighth and my father was layed off after working for the railroad fifteen years. Many a girl of my age is hoping that on Christmas morn they will find a wrist watch, a handbag, or even a fur coat. But my one and only wish is to have father and mother spend a happy Christmas. Mrs. Roosevelt I am asking of you a favor which can make this wish come true. I am asking you to keep up our payments until my father gets back to work as a Christmas gift to me. Though father worked part time for quite a while we never lost anything for the lack of payments. If the refrigerator was taken away from us father and mother would think it a disgrace.

I close hoping with all my heart that my letter will be consider. Mrs. Roosevelt you may rest assure that I have learnt my lesson.

I am respectfully yours
J.B.
Springfield, Mass

Dear J.B,

It isn’t your fault you got sick and you didn’t force your father to buy the refrigerator. I’m sorry to hear about your condition and I’ll pray for you to get well soon. Send your father my regards and remember to tell him I’m praying he finds work. I am sure I can keep up with your payments, as long as you promise me you and your family helps the even more needy people. Remember that everyone needs a little help sometimes. Send me a letter containing the information to which I as sending this monthly payment of seven dollars and twenty two cents. Hope you get well soon.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt

mre · Senior Member

Grades Updated 4/6/10

Savanna · Veteran Member

Mason, Wisconsin
January 9, 1934

Dear Mrs. F. Roosevelt,

I suppose you'll be kind of surprised to hear from a poor little girl. I am ten years old. On Christmas eve I had wished for Santa Clause to come but my mama said the chimney was blocked & he couldn't come, so I had a poor Christmas. I was expecting Santa to bring me some things.

I lost my daddy when I was two years old.

I have read in the papers how good you are to the poor and thought maybe you can help me some. I will appreciate it all my life.

To-day we have started school from our Christmas vacation & all the children talk about how many presants Santa has brought them & I felt so bad cause I had nothing to say. I guess that is all. My address is

R#2, Box 7
Mason, Wisconsin
Yours truly,
M. A.

My dear little M.A.

I know the pain, for I have also lost my father. But rest assure that the pain makes me stronger everyday, as I do believe you will be too. Im am sorry that I can not send you any presents, for I wish I could send all the children who write to me, those who have similar lives as yours, toys and other gifts. Do not feel bad that Santa has not been to your house, feel lucky and happy that you have a loving mother who is doing her very best to make sure you are healthy and happy. The gift of life is the greatest of all, and be happy that you have yours to live.

Sincerly,

E. Roosevelt

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt

I am writing to you for some of your old soiled dresses if you have any. As I am a poor girl who has to stay out of school. On account of dresses & slips and a coat. I am in the seventh grade but I have to stay out of school because I have no books or clothes to ware. I am in need of dresses & slips and a coat very bad. If you have any soiled clothes that you don't want to ware I would be very glad to get them. But please do not let the news paper reporters get hold of this in any way and I will keep it from geting out here so there will be no one else to get hold of it. But do not let my name get out in the paper. I am thirteen years old.

Yours Truly,
Miss L. H.
Gravette, Ark.
R #3
c/o A. H.

Dear Miss L. H

There is nothing more that could make me happy, to give you my old dresses and coat. I may have some old slips as well. I assure you that the press will remain out of this. I understand how importan it is for a young girl to get an education. And if the only thing holding you back is the matter of clothing, I am happy to oblige. I shall send some books as well. Promise me that you will complete your education and work hard.

Sincerly

E. Roosevelt

Dear Mrs. Roosevelt,

I am a senior in high school this year and expect to graduate may the thirty-first. My daddy is sixty-five years old, a poor farmer and isn't able to supply the necessary articles which graduation calls for. I am determined to get an education, so that I can help him in the very near future. I am asking you to send me, out of your personal funds thirty-five dollars ($35) to purchase these things such as invitations, class ring, graduation dress and shoes and other small articles.

In September I'll be prepared for College and will need some help in financial conditions as well as suggestions as to which college a poor girl should attend. Send only enough in September for my freshman year in College, and maybe the next year times will be better.

If you will take notice of my letter and answer as soon as possible, it will be highly appreciated, for without help I can go no further into the step of education, nor can I reach the requirements of a high school graduate. I thank you.

For reference you may refer to Rev. J. Knight, pastor of the Indian Bayou Methodist Church, Indian Bayou, Louisiana,

Sincerely yours,
J. R. D.

Dear J.R.D,

Im am happy to hear from a young girl who is striving for an education. It warms my heart to know that young women like you want to go to college and make something of themselves. I would be happy to set up a fund for your college career. I shall also send the money for your graduation. I will set you up with a job so you can earn some money for books and such as well. I believe in independence to make a stong woman. Good luck!

Sincerly
E. Roosevelt