Historical society seeks men-at-work items

It was a man’s world in America during the first half of the 20th century.

Employed in offices, banks and factories, in 1900-1950 the American male was a taxi driver, farmer or rancher, railroad worker, clerk, plumber, merchant, electrician, carpenter, bus driver, stockbroker, policeman, doctor or dentist.

In short, men held the same jobs they do today until widespread unemployment during the 1930s forced many to take on other forms of employment. When World War II began, hundreds of thousands of American men were drafted or enlisted in the military.

Maricopans can help the Maricopa Historical Society with its upcoming display, Men at Work: 1900-1950.

Anything related to the men’s world of work would be appropriate, including items from various places of employment, office equipment, tools, photos or other artifacts.

All items on loan will be documented, identified and displayed in the Historical Society’s locked cabinets at the Maricopa Public Library. They will be returned at the end of November.

Anyone with something to loan needs to contact one of the following people by Aug. 10:
MaryLou Smith, 520-568-2285, [email protected]; Gerry Ryan 520-568-3591, [email protected]; or Dorothy Charles, 520-568-7565, [email protected].

The Maricopa Historical Society’s “The 1900s and Before: Those Were the Good Old Days” is on display through August. The exhibit depicts handcrafted items completed by women, as well as early sewing machines and sewing notions. Cooking items used routinely to make each house a home are also showcased.