10 Things Our Grandparents Reused During the Great Depression
The Great Depression era, a time of economic hardship during the 1930s, taught our grandparents the importance of thriftiness and resourcefulness. While we live in a more disposable society today, there’s so much we can learn from the frugality of that time. Let’s step back into history and explore ten things our grandparents reused during the Great Depression.
1. Glass Jars and Bottles
Glass containers were a staple in every household during the Great Depression, valued for their durability and versatility. Our ancestors understood the importance of reusing these items rather than discarding them after a single use. These jars and bottles came in all shapes and sizes, making them perfect for a variety of home uses.
Preserving Homemade Jams: One of the most common uses for glass jars was preserving food. Families would spend time canning fruits and vegetables to create jams, jellies, and preserves. This method of food preservation was essential for ensuring that nothing went to waste and that there was enough food to last through the winter months.
Storing Bulk Goods: Glass containers also served as excellent storage solutions for bulk goods such as flour, sugar, rice, and beans. The airtight seal of a glass jar kept these staples free from pests and moisture, which was crucial for maintaining a pantry during times when resources were scarce.
Makeshift Vases: Beyond their practical uses in the kitchen, glass bottles and jars found a second life as decorative items. A simple glass bottle could be cleaned up and used as a vase for wildflowers or garden blooms, adding a touch of beauty to a home without the need for extra expenditure.
The practice of reusing glass containers is a testament to the resourcefulness of our grandparents’ generation. It reflects a mindset of conservation and sustainability that is just as relevant today as it was back then. By following in their footsteps, we can reduce our environmental impact while paying homage to the ingenuity of the past.
2. Feed Sacks
During the Great Depression, the concept of ‘make do and mend’ was not just a slogan but a way of life. Feed sacks, which were initially designed to hold animal feed or grains, became an unexpected source of fabric for families who couldn’t afford new textiles.
Transforming into Dresses: Manufacturers began producing feed sacks with colorful patterns and designs, knowing that homemakers would repurpose them into clothing. Women became adept at turning these sturdy fabrics into fashionable dresses for themselves and their children. The patterns were often floral or geometric, and the creativity involved in making these garments turned a practical item into a stylish one.
Becoming Curtains and Household Linens: The versatility of feed sack fabric also lent itself to home décor. Families used these textiles to sew curtains, creating a cozy and personalized touch to their homes. They also crafted other household linens such as tablecloths, dish towels, and even bed sheets from these materials.
Crafting Quilts: Perhaps one of the most enduring uses of feed sack fabric was in quilting. Quilts were essential for keeping warm during the cold months, and feed sacks provided a free source of quilting material. These quilts often became family heirlooms, treasured for their beauty and the resourcefulness they represented.
The ingenuity of using feed sacks in this manner is a poignant example of how our grandparents made the most of every resource available to them. It’s a reminder that with a little creativity, items that might otherwise be discarded can be given a new lease on life, serving both practical needs and aesthetic desires. This practice not only saved money but also instilled a sense of pride in making something beautiful out of humble beginnings.
3. Tin Cans
Tin cans were a common byproduct of pantry staples during the Great Depression, and in the spirit of frugality, they were seldom thrown away. Instead, these durable containers were washed out and given a new purpose, demonstrating the resourcefulness of that era.
Planters: Tin cans were often repurposed into planters for both indoor and outdoor use. People would fill them with soil and plant seeds, cultivating everything from kitchen herbs to colorful flowers. This practice not only recycled the cans but also contributed to self-sufficiency by growing food and beautifying living spaces without additional cost.
Makeshift Stoves: In an impressive display of ingenuity, some would transform tin cans into makeshift stoves or burners. By cutting holes for ventilation and creating a space to hold fuel, such as small pieces of wood or charcoal, these cans became portable heat sources. They could be used for cooking when resources were scarce or during travel.
Candle Holders: Tin cans also found a second life as candle holders. The reflective nature of the metal helped amplify the candlelight. Families would punch holes in the cans to create patterns that cast soft, decorative light in a room. These homemade lanterns were not just functional; they added a touch of warmth and ambiance during times when other forms of lighting were a luxury.
The transformation of tin cans into these new objects is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of people during the Great Depression. It serves as a reminder that with a bit of imagination, we can find new uses for items that might otherwise end up in the waste stream. This approach to reuse is a valuable lesson in sustainability that remains relevant in our modern world.
4. Old Clothes and Rags
The Great Depression instilled a deep sense of resourcefulness in those who lived through it, and this was particularly evident in the way they handled clothing. In an age where every penny and every thread counted, worn-out clothing was never simply discarded.
Quilt Patches: Quilts were a practical and artistic expression of resourcefulness. Worn-out clothing was carefully deconstructed, and the fabric that still had life left in it was cut into patches. These patches were then pieced together to create vibrant quilts that not only provided warmth but also told a story through the various fabrics used, each with its own history.
Cleaning Rags: When clothing was too far gone to be included in a quilt, it wasn’t wasted. Instead, these garments were repurposed into cleaning rags. Soft, absorbent materials like cotton from old t-shirts or towels were ideal for scrubbing floors or dusting furniture. This practice turned what would have been trash into a valuable tool for maintaining a clean home.
Children’s Garments: Perhaps one of the most heartwarming repurposes was the transformation of adult clothing into children’s garments. A father’s worn shirt could become a little dress, or a mother’s skirt could be downsized into a pair of pants for a young boy. This process not only saved families money but also allowed them to provide for their children in a time when new clothes were a luxury few could afford.
These practices underscored a philosophy of ‘waste not, want not’ that was crucial for survival during the economic downturn of the Great Depression. They reflect a level of creativity and sustainability that is inspiring even today, reminding us of the value in seeing the potential for new uses in our old belongings.
5. Paper Bags and Newspapers
Paper products, which might seem disposable and insignificant today, were valuable commodities during the Great Depression. Our grandparents found multiple uses for such items, ensuring that every piece of paper served a purpose beyond its initial intent.
Paper Bags: The humble brown paper bag was a versatile tool in households of the era. After fulfilling their primary role of carrying groceries or goods from the market, these bags were carefully smoothed out and stored for later use. One of their secondary uses was as protective covers for schoolbooks. Parents would cut and fold them to fit around textbooks, keeping the books in good condition to extend their life or for use by younger siblings in subsequent years. This practice also allowed children to personalize their book covers with drawings or writings, adding a bit of fun to their school supplies.
Newspapers: Newspapers were another example of an everyday item that was repurposed in several ways. Once read, newspapers weren’t simply thrown away; they were used to line shelves and drawers, protecting surfaces and making cleanup easier. The absorbent quality of newsprint made it excellent for polishing windows and mirrors, leaving them streak-free without the need for chemical cleaners. Additionally, crumpled newspapers could be used as insulation material to block drafts under doors or in attics, providing a bit of extra warmth during cold months.
These practices highlight not only the thriftiness of the time but also an early form of environmental consciousness. By finding new uses for paper bags and newspapers, our grandparents reduced waste and conserved resources in small but significant ways. Their example is a powerful reminder of how we can approach our current consumption habits with more mindfulness and creativity.
6. Wooden Crates and Boxes
Wooden crates and boxes, which were originally used for transporting goods ranging from produce to machinery parts, became invaluable resources during the Great Depression. Their solid construction meant they could be repurposed in a number of ways to meet the needs of families who couldn’t afford to purchase new household items.
Furniture: With a little ingenuity, these wooden crates and boxes were transformed into functional furniture. Stacked and secured together, they could become bookshelves or coffee tables. Turned on their sides, crates made excellent seats or bedside tables. Some even added cushions or small mattresses to create makeshift sofas or beds. This DIY approach to furnishing homes was not only economical but also allowed for customization to fit the space and needs of each family.
Storage Bins: The original use of crates and boxes was for storage, and this purpose was extended in their second life. They were perfect for organizing tools in a shed, toys in a playroom, or pantry items in the kitchen. Families would often label them or paint them to indicate their contents, turning functional storage into an aesthetically pleasing organization system.
Shelving: Wooden crates could be nailed or screwed into walls to create shelving units. These shelves held everything from dishes and cookware in the kitchen to books and knick-knacks in the living room. The natural wood provided a rustic charm to the home, and the shelves helped keep living spaces tidy and organized.
The transformation of wooden crates and boxes into furniture, storage bins, and shelving is a testament to the creativity and resilience of those who lived through the Great Depression. It’s a reminder that with some imagination and effort, we can repurpose what might otherwise be considered waste into something practical and beautiful for our homes.
7. Rubber Bands and String
In the era of the Great Depression, the adage “waste not, want not” was taken to heart, and this philosophy extended to even the smallest items in the household. Rubber bands and strings, often overlooked today, were seen as valuable tools that could be used time and again.
Rubber Bands: Rubber bands found their way into nearly every home and were saved diligently. They could be wrapped around rolled documents or newspapers to keep them tidy, used to secure lids on jars or boxes, or even looped together to create larger elastic bands for bigger tasks. Children might find a playful use for them as well, turning them into makeshift toys or using them for craft projects.
Strings: Strings, twine, and yarn scraps were collected and repurposed with equal care. These could be used to tie up plants in the garden, mend torn fabrics, or replace drawstrings in bags or clothing. In the kitchen, string was essential for trussing meats or bundling herbs for cooking. Crafty individuals would braid or knit these strings into pot holders, coasters, or even small rugs.
The practice of saving and reusing rubber bands and strings exemplified a mindset of conservation and practicality. It encouraged people to look at everyday objects not as single-use items but as resources that could serve multiple purposes over their lifetimes. This approach minimized waste and maximized utility, principles that are increasingly relevant today as we seek to live more sustainably.
8. Bones and Fat from Meats
During the Great Depression, every part of an animal was used to its fullest potential. This included bones and fat, which were valuable commodities in a time when nothing could afford to be wasted.
Bones for Soups and Broths: Bones that remained after a meal were not discarded; instead, they were boiled to create nourishing soups and broths. This process extracted every bit of flavor and nutrients from the bones, resulting in a rich base that could be used for various dishes. The broth served as a hearty meal on its own or as a foundation for stews, gravies, and sauces. It was also common to add vegetables, barley, or rice to the simmering pot to make the meal more substantial.
Fat for Cooking and Soap Making: Fat trimmings were rendered down to produce cooking fat, which could be used in place of butter or oil—a scarce commodity during those hard times. This rendered fat added necessary calories and flavor to meals. Additionally, the fat was used in making homemade soap, a skill many families had mastered. The process involved combining the fat with lye and water, then pouring it into molds to set. This homemade soap was used for everything from laundry to personal hygiene, providing a cost-effective and self-sufficient alternative to store-bought products.
The practice of utilizing bones and fat fully reflects a deep respect for the resources available and an understanding of the value inherent in what we might now consider waste. It’s a reminder of the ingenuity required to live sustainably and the ways in which our ancestors made the most of what they had. These lessons from the past can still inform our modern approaches to consumption and waste reduction.
9. Shoe Soles and Leather Scraps
Footwear was a significant investment during the Great Depression, and repairing shoes was far more economical than purchasing new ones. The soles of shoes, which bore the brunt of daily wear and tear, were particularly prone to wearing out.
Shoe Sole Repair: When shoe soles became worn or damaged, they weren’t simply discarded. Instead, they were taken to cobblers for repair, or resourceful individuals would mend them at home using whatever materials they had on hand. This could involve patching holes with leather scraps or even repurposing rubber from other items like tires to create new soles. By repairing their shoes, people extended the life of their footwear significantly, saving money and resources.
Leather Scraps for Patching: Any leftover pieces of leather from these repairs, no matter how small, were saved for future use. These scraps could be cut into patches to mend other items such as gloves, bags, or jackets. Leather was a durable material that could reinforce areas subject to heavy use, such as elbows on a jacket or the bottom of a bag, providing an additional layer of longevity to these items.
Creating Small Tools: Beyond patching, leather scraps were also fashioned into small, practical tools. For example, leather washers were made to fit between nuts, bolts, and surfaces to prevent leakage in plumbing or to provide cushioning to reduce wear on moving parts. These homemade washers were a testament to the ingenuity of the time, showcasing how every piece of material could be utilized in a functional way.
The practice of repairing shoe soles and repurposing leather scraps is a prime example of the resourcefulness that defined the Great Depression era. It underscores a commitment to sustainability and self-reliance that is increasingly relevant today as we seek to minimize waste and make the most of the materials at our disposal.
10. Used Cooking Oil
Cooking oil was a precious commodity during the Great Depression, and households went to great lengths to ensure it was used judiciously. Disposing of oil after just one use would have been unthinkable at a time when every resource had to be stretched as far as possible.
Straining Cooking Oil: After cooking, the oil was allowed to cool to a safe temperature. It was then strained through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to remove any food particles. This process helped to purify the oil, making it suitable for reuse. The straining was important not only to maintain the quality of the oil but also to prevent flavors from previous meals from transferring to new dishes.
Reusing for Different Meals: Once strained, the cleaned oil could be stored and later reused for frying or sautéing other foods. Families were mindful to match the oil with appropriate types of meals. For instance, oil that had been used to fry fish might later be used for foods where a slight fish flavor would not be out of place or could even be desirable. Similarly, oil used for sweet dishes would be reused in recipes where the additional sweetness would be beneficial.
This practice of reusing cooking oil multiple times showcased the frugality and practicality of home cooks during the Great Depression. It was an essential part of kitchen economy, reducing waste and helping families save money. Today, this approach can inspire us to think more carefully about how we use and dispose of cooking oil, reminding us that many resources have more life in them than we might initially believe.
Embracing these practices from our grandparents’ era not only honors their legacy but also promotes sustainability. In a world where reducing waste is becoming increasingly important, their ingenuity is a source of inspiration.
