What a Relief: Green Bay Families During the Great Depression, 1929-1940

Abstract

On October 24, 1929 the New York stock market crashed. Many people view the crash of the stock market as the beginning of the Great Depression. Families all over the country needed to adjust their lifestyles in order to cope with growing unemployment. White, working class families in Green Bay, Wisconsin, experienced the effects of the deteriorating economy, and turned to relatives and the Green Bay Welfare Department for assistance. The welfare department provided thousands of families assistance with rent, food, and fuel. Family roles changed as women and children entered the work force due to monetary and health reasons. The families turned to innovative techniques, such as creating overalls for children from the backs of overalls for men.