Evan Call Family - 19330315

Historical Context

This letter was written on March 15, 1933, by Evan's father Thomas to Evan. It offers a remarkable, firsthand look at one of the most critical weeks in American economic history.

When Franklin D. Roosevelt took office 11 days prior to this letter, on March 4, 1933, the nation's banking system was collapsing. On March 6, FDR declared a nationwide four-day "Bank Holiday" to stop panic-driven runs on banks.

The "President speaking Sunday evening" that Thomas Call refers to was FDR’s very first "Fireside Chat" broadcast via radio on March 12, 1933. In it, Roosevelt explained in plain language how the government was auditing banks before allowing them to safely reopen. Thomas repeats the President's reassuring words almost verbatim ("not to be alarmed... take a little time to get around to all the banks").

Thomas mentions the youth attending a rabbit hunter's dance. In the 1930s, jackrabbit populations in the West occasionally surged to plague-like proportions, destroying precious crops. Western communities frequently organized massive, competitive community rabbit hunts to protect their farms, followed by a celebratory town dance in the evening.

Afton, Wyo. Mar. 15th 1933.

Dear Son Evan:

We have received your letters happy to know that you are working with good companions and are still enjoying your labors.

It must have been a grand occasion at the inaugural services of the President. You will see and hear many things on your mission that would never come to one who had not the advantage of a mission.

I heard the President speak Sunday evening probably as plain as you could when you saw him. He told us not to be alarmed because our bank might not be among those that would open first. It would take a little time to get around to all the banks, attending to examination etc. Our bank is not yet open but I think it will open this Saturday. So I am sending you a check as usual for it is all I can do.

I hope you have not been too inconvenienced

in getting along while the banks have been closed. I have worried some that some at least of the checks may not have gotten to a bank before the closing day, and you would have cashed it making a condition where the parties would come back on you for the money.

Our building is being delayed during past two months because of cold weather. I think you should be home before the building is finished.

Unless an usual amount of money comes that is more than I can see a chance of getting now, it will take all I can get during Apr. to meet the tax bill in may. I thought if I got one more payment $25.00 that might be all that would be required. We would like you to stay until they see fit to give you your honorable release. I will continue to do all I can.

We are having some spring March weather now, cold nights yet.

The young folk are all attending the Community Rabbit Hunter's dance to night. Reuel and Verna are still with us. Wishing you continued health and joy in your labors.

Your Father, Thomas J. Call

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