During the tumultuous Great Depression era, a Chicago family’s Christmas card from 1933 encapsulates the resilience and spirit of ordinary households facing economic hardship. Crafted from a humble brown paper bag, the card features simplistic stick figure drawings of a family – a man, a woman, and children – surrounded by bills for essential expenses like water, rent, groceries, and gas.
Despite the challenging financial circumstances, the card conveys a message of hope and holiday cheer with the inscription “Oh, well – in spite of it all – here’s a Merry Christmas From The Pineros.” Inside, a poem humorously reflects on the family’s past struggles and current acceptance of their economic situation during the Depression.
Preserved at the National Museum of American History in Washington D.C., the card’s frugal creation from a brown paper bag symbolizes the financial constraints of the time. Donated by Peter McCormick, the son of the recipient family, the card’s existence serves as a poignant reminder of the shared experiences of families enduring the Great Depression.
The museum’s analysis of the card highlights the Pineros’ ability to find humor and camaraderie in their economic challenges, as expressed through the light-hearted poem. The piece also sheds light on the common financial burdens faced by families, including bills for necessities like rent, groceries, utilities, milk, and ice, showcasing the everyday struggles of households during that period.
Social media reactions to the card’s story emphasize the human connection and heartfelt sentiment conveyed by the simple yet profound Christmas message. Users expressed admiration for the family’s resilience and the enduring spirit of goodwill captured in the vintage greeting card.