Sidney Ashley Chanler

Music

Jazz musician pay increased significantly by 1920s

In New Orleans, jazz musicians' earnings rose significantly, with some increasing from $1.50 per night in early dance halls to $25 per night at upscale locations by the mid-1920s.

Daily life

Students used slates instead of paper

School supplies were minimal; instead of modern materials, children typically used only a slate and chalk, and many carried their lunches to school in metal pails.

What it cost

Weekly earnings for workers

An unskilled worker in the early 1900s earned about $10 a week, while many textile workers averaged around $8.76 for a full week's work in 1911.

What people wore

The versatile shirtwaist blouse

The shirtwaist, a simple long-sleeved blouse, was a staple for working women because it could be tucked into a single skirt, making it appear as though she owned multiple outfits.

Getting around

Rural travel by wagon in 1900

In 1900, many rural residents lived in small towns without a train station, often requiring a two-hour wagon ride to reach the nearest railway.

At the table

Daily water hauling for chores

Women in urban and rural households carried approximately 200 pounds of water into their homes daily for cooking, cleaning, and drinking.