In 1939, amidst the lingering effects of the Great Depression, a family near Sallisaw, Oklahoma, faced significant economic hardship. Struggling to make ends meet, they chose to set up their home in a simple tent, seeking to save money on rent and living expenses by relocating to a more modest, temporary shelter. Though living in a tent presented numerous challenges, the family adapted by maintaining a small goat dairy, which provided both sustenance and potentially a modest income, allowing them to navigate their difficult circumstances.
The choice to live in a tent was a reflection of the family’s resilience and self-reliance during a time of uncertainty. Raising goats offered them a reliable source of milk and dairy products, vital for their survival when other resources were scarce. This small but meaningful step toward self-sufficiency demonstrates the family’s determination to maintain a sense of normalcy and stability despite their harsh living conditions. The presence of the dairy alongside their tent home also highlights the role of resourcefulness in overcoming the limitations imposed by the Great Depression.
This family’s decision to live in a tent was not an isolated choice but part of a larger trend during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression, where many rural families in Oklahoma and beyond were forced to find unconventional ways to survive. Migration and financial hardship led families to make tough decisions about where to live and how to get by. The image of this family near Sallisaw offers a glimpse into the hardships of that time, showcasing their perseverance, ingenuity, and the strong sense of community that helped them endure the most challenging years of their lives.
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