I was struck at how poignant the little piece of film is . . . none of the teenagers goofing off for the camera have a clue, that the "recession" that began the prior year will harden into the "Great Depression", with devastating consequences for their lives. Nor can they imagine, that in 10 years their nation will be pulled into a world war. They are all partying like it's 1928!!
I was also surprised at how tidy and well maintained Leadville was in 1931. The small frame houses opposite the school appear freshly painted. There is no Dorthea Lange depression-era feeling about Leadville yet.
And I had no idea that the hems of the girl's skirts were so high in 1931 . . .
Jim Courtney
Poulsbo, WA