Potlucks and ‘thrift gardens’ were the norm
A lot of radio shows and magazines taught people how to be more frugal and stretch their budget as much as possible with one-pot meals and casseroles. Furthermore, churches were the ones that organized the potlucks that slowly became the most popular way to share food during the Great Depression. Among people’s favorite meals were mac and cheese, soups, chili, stews, and toast with beef, but as often as is the case, there were a lot of other weird foods that were made during this era, and the American diet changed dramatically thanks to the prioritization of thrift.
In some towns and cities, empty lots were turned into neighborhood “thrift gardens” where locals could grow food. Detroit was among the first states that started the “thrift garden” initiative that fed around 20,000 people between 1931 and 1932. Former office employees, still in their day-to-day clothes (white button-down shirts and trousers), could be seen being assisted by seasoned gardeners in cultivating their plots.
Did you know that the first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, was the main supporter of the home economics movement? She actually planned inexpensive and nutritious meals that were also eaten by the whole family at the White House during the Great Depression, and this was supposed to be a model of how to eat and stay healthy during troubling times.
4 Responses
I remember my Grandmother saying that at times all they had was cornbread and syrup to eat. My Mother inlaw told about the kids going to neighbors to see if they had any leftovers to spare. I’m afraid with the cost of food going up this might happen again. Shame on the states who refuse to end food taxes.
Very interested article and facts.
Will be interested if possible in the future to be included in all your articles.
Thank you in advance.
Regards,
Martine
I enjoyed reading about what time were like in 30’s I remember my grandparents telling what it was like during those times Thanks
Very nicely done.