A picture of LHS history students presenting their projects.

High school students in Ms. Jackson's class, have been trying out Depression Era recipes as part of their history class and are gaining a deeper appreciation for the economic struggles faced by Americans during that era. Many of the recipes from that time were designed to be cheap and filling, using ingredients that were readily available and affordable. For example, recipes like bean soup and boiled cabbage were popular because they were nutritious, filling, and made use of inexpensive ingredients. By exploring these recipes, students gain a better understanding of the challenges and hardships faced by people during the Great Depression, and how they found creative ways to make do with what they had.

One interesting aspect of trying out Depression Era recipes today is comparing the cost of ingredients then and now. Students can calculate the cost of the ingredients needed to make a recipe in the 1930s and compare it to the cost of the same ingredients today. This exercise can help them understand how economic conditions have changed over time, and how the cost of living has fluctuated in different eras. It can also provide valuable lessons about budgeting and making the most of limited resources. Overall, trying out Depression Era recipes provides a unique and engaging way for high school students to connect with history, learn important life skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience of people in the face of adversity.