Browse Exhibits (2 total)

Hobo Cultural History: Stories of Authenticity and Misrepresentation

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Hoboes, tramps, and vagabonds have long been subject to stories of both authentic life experiences in the road and subject to stories of misrepresented peoples. The cultural stereotypes that seek to define the image of the freight-hopping worker are continuously competing against the real, authentic stories of life on the road that are at risk of being completely lost in memory. Today, the preservation of the artifacts, documents, stories, and creative works that remain is a critical step toward not only safeguarding the authenticity of the traveler but also combating the misrepresentations and stereotypes that continue to dominate the public imaginations of the traveler. This exhibit is dedicated to sharing stories of both authencity and misrepresentation through the cultural histories of hoboing, trampign, and vagabonding in America. Scroll through the exhibit to learn more about the storytelling and cultural traditions that are a part of the ongoing effort to secure the identity, history, and heritage of the traveling worker.

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Women Hobos: A Look Into American Hobo Culture

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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.

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