Lecture Notes: The Story of the "Migrant Mother" Photograph

Introduction

• The photograph "Migrant Mother" is one of the world's most famous images.
• Taken by Dorothea Lange in 1936 during the Great Depression.
• Labeled by the U.S. Library of Congress as "Destitute Pea Pickers in California."

The Photograph

• Printed in newspapers in 1936, it spurred a relief movement saving many from starvation.
• Became a symbol of the Great Depression and the suffering of farm workers.
• Is in the public domain as it was part of Lange's work with the Farm Security Administration.
• Known for the mother's worried eyes, children turned away, and the rough textures.
• Lange took six other photographs that day, providing context.

Dorothea Lange's Perspective

• Lange approached the family feeling drawn to the scene.
• The mother, Florence Owens Thompson, was 32 at the time.
• Lange's narrative: the family lived on frozen vegetables and birds, sold car tires for food.

Florence Owens Thompson's Story

• Florence felt there was no equality in the photograph's creation.
• Born Florence Leona Christie in 1903, Native American, Cherokee descent.
• Married Cleo Owens in 1921, had five children before Cleo died in 1931.
• Remarried Jim Hill, continued to work various jobs to support the family.
• Was not a "destitute pea-picker" as labeled, but a struggling, resilient mother.
• Her family refuted Lange's narrative about living conditions.

Aftermath and Legacy

• The photograph overshadowed Florence's actual life experiences.
• Became a part of the larger narrative of motherhood, resilience, and poverty.
• Florence continued working various jobs until finding stability post-WWII.
• Her family helped with medical costs in her later life with public support.

Family's Reaction to the Photograph

• Mixed feelings about the photograph's fame and its impact.
• Seen as a "curse" but later appreciated as a symbol of strength.
• Funds raised for Florence's medical care came with supportive letters.
• Florence's tombstone reads "Migrant Mother: A Legend of the Strength of American Motherhood."

Conclusion

• The photograph captures more than poverty, showcasing strength and dignity.
• It represents a deeper narrative about motherhood during the Great Depression.
• Florence was seen as a legend to the public but remained a mother to her children.