The year was 1939. The country was still struggling with the economic crisis and, particularly in southern Illinois, times were hard. Yet, life went on, and it looked much like what it looks like today–with some key differences. Here are pictures of what it was like to live in Illinois in 1939.
- People got haircuts…but they only cost a quarter.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- Kids played during recess, sans jungle gym.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- People still had to go to the emergency room.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- And they still went to church.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- Ladies visited the market.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- But they managed to have time to head out to the taverns and dance.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- People really enjoyed popcorn…at a very reduced price.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- Mules were still a huge part of American life.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- Stores still failed when times got hard.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrmmar
- And stores deeply discounted prices to retain customers.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- Politicians struggled to figure out how to keep Illinois afloat through the economic crisis.
Dorothea Lange/Photogrammar
- People were able to start getting back on their feet.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
- Families went through hard times, but their struggles give us the opportunity to flourish today.
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
There were some lean times in Illinois in 1939, as there were across the country. But they were able to pull through it and helped make our state what it is today!
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrammar
Arthur Rothstein/Photogrmmar
Dorothea Lange/Photogrammar
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
