Money may have been scarce during the 1930s but food was actually relatively cheap and plentiful. Soup kitchens and government programs kept the out of work fed. The average American, especially those living in rural areas, did not face starvation. La Plata County was unaffected by the Dust Bowl. Here farmers diversified and provided fresh meats, fruits and vegetables.
As unemployment reached 25% in Colorado, women who had jobs outside the home were fired so men could have their jobs. With “extra” time and little cash, these women learned to forgo the more expensive convenience foods introduced in the 1920s from technologies developed during World War I. They baked bread, canned fruits and vegetables and found inventive ways to stretch foods and leftovers. The kitchen and relatively new appliances like electric stoves, ovens and refrigerators were well-used.
Many women listened to a radio cooking show sponsored by the U.S.D.A. featuring “Aunt Sammy.” She taught women how to stretch their food dollar with meatloaf, creamed chipped beef on toast, chili, and macaroni and cheese. Some “new” products like Crisco and Miracle Whip replaced butter and mayonnaise because they were less expensive. American’s eating habits were changed in the 1930s forever.