A shirt could be worn by several children before it was eventually too worn out to repair.
The trousers had been repaired with patches.
The shoes were repaired repeatedly.
The dresses were altered and made to measure.
Nothing was thrown away until there was absolutely nothing left to use.
To some people nowadays, this might sound incredible.
But during the Great Depression, many families lived this way.
The repair proceeded normally.
Sharing was the most normal thing in the world.
It was essential to make things last a long time.
The children didn’t find it strange.
They just knew that everyone helped everyone.
The village that just wouldn’t stop talking
The family gained great fame throughout Delaware County.
Not famous like celebrities.
Famous because people were astonished by their circumstances.
Twelve children in a small room.
A thirteenth child is on the way.
A father who works sixteen hours a day.
