Introduction
The history of the hobo has been fraught with stereotypes and misrepresentation. Often left out are the authentic life experiences and diversity that made up the hobo community. Previous exhibits have focused on safeguarding the authenticity of the hobo as well as showcasing the humanity and spirit that is intrinsic to the hobo's way of life. Traditionally, women's history has been overlooked, especially within marginalized groups. Public imagination of the hobo left out women which led to the erasure of important events, culture, and experiences. The goal of this exhibit is to share the stories of women hobos, through their perspective, by utilizing photographs, oral histories, publications, and writings.
This exhibit is dedicated to the adventurous women who shaped and preserved the hobo community and are fighting to keep its heritage and culture alive.
Click on the tabs on the right side of the screen to learn more about individual women hobos.
This article written by Walter C. Reckless, explains why women become hobos. Estimated to be published around the 30s-40s, it offers perspective into the reasoning and experiences that women had on the road. This article can also be used to see the stereotypes that surround the hoboing community and the differences in gendered experiences.
The article "Roaming the Back Country" by Hood River Blackie gives insight into how the male hobos viewed the female hobos. It details their experiences on the road and how they differed from the male experience. The sentiment, "They, like most of the male hoboes I knew, have passed on- "and the roselipt girls are sleeping in fields where roses fade." is striking. The women in this article saw the passing of the "Old West" and served as witnesses to a great shift in American society.