Not only were these folks limited to what meals they could make because of money, but using the makeshift kitchens they had along the road or at campsites, these travelers seem to be making some dishes that seem closer to Old West recipes. And it makes sense since there were no fast food options and the knowledge that settlers and cowboys had used to make it on the frontier.

Making food by the side of the road- looks like beans and onions in one pan and coffee in another. Via/ Library of Congress
Via/ Library of Congress
Via/ Library of Congress
From original caption: “Migrant steeple-jack and his family eating a “bought lunch” by the roadside Near Prague, Oklahoma, Lincoln County.” Via/ Library of Congress
When you eat by the roadside, newspapers could be the table. It looks like they’re having stew. Via/ Library of Congress

If you enjoyed this then click the “Next Page” button for some of the ingenious saltine recipes from the Great Depression!
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