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Migratory worker and family

Object Details

Description
While traveling through Texas capturing images for his photo essay, Mydans focused not only on the prosperous cowboys on the range, but also on the displaced population that was still struggling to find jobs amidst a national economic crisis.
Migrant workers like this man, whom Mydans found living with his family by the side of the road near Raymondville, Texas, were called "brush-hogs." It was estimated that this type of permanent migrant worker, without a home, voting privileges, or union representation, numbered more than 3 million during the 1930s. These laborers traveled from place to place, harvesting crops that needed to be picked as soon as they ripened, hoping to earn enough money to get by.
Location
Currently not on view
Data Source
National Museum of American History
photographer
Mydans, Carl
Date made
1937
Physical Description
paper (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 33 cm x 25 cm; 13 in x 9 13/16 in
Object Name
photograph

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Migrant worker and his family living by the side of the road near Raymondville, Texas
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