Economic Adventure: Family Life Improves

The 1810s In 1810, a typical New England family lived on a 75-acre farm in central Massachusetts. The family included a father, mother, and four children, aged one to 14. Two additional children had died in infancy. The family worked together as a self-sufficient unit to produce almost everything they consumed — food, clothing, tools, and furniture. That which they didn’t produce, they obtained in trade or, less often, they purchased. Learn more...

The 1890s Many families of the 1890s were slightly smaller than in the 1810s. They most likely lived in a city or town. If their home was newly built, it had running water and indoor plumbing, but most of the population still depended on outdoor privies and wash basins. Stoves were replacing fireplaces for cooking, and kerosene or gas lamps provided much brighter lighting. Learn more...

The 1960s The typical family of the 1960s had four members and most likely lived in the suburb of a city. Their home sat on its own half acre of land and differed from its neighbors only in exterior color and landscaping. Cars defined the era: Cars made it possible for people to live in the suburbs and at greater distances from their place of work. Food, home items, clothing — virtually everything — was purchased. Many items were made overseas and/or were made of plastic. Learn more...