During the 1930s, life in Iowa was much different than it is today. Most everyone living in here during this time period was a farmer, or a hired hand. These 14 rare photos will show you how different life was back then, and how simple things used to be:

1. A billiards parlor, which was a spot for the townsfolk to gather and mingle.
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2. A proud courthouse, which was often the site of picnics and playing.
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3. A yearly carnival or county fair, like this one in Marshalltown.
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4. Friendly neighbors, who would stop and greet each other in the street.
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5. A secondhand store full of treasures, like this one in Council Bluffs.
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6. A local newspaper, like the Daily Reporter in Spencer.
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7. A hometown hardware store, where you could find anything and everything you ever needed.
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8. A schoolhouse where you can bet the teacher knew your name, along with everyone else's in the class.
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9. A church, of course, as no town could be complete without one.
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10. A pool and beer hall where the men would gather after a long day at work.
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11. A Main Street that was the center of the town, like this one in Dickens.
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12. A bank, or a cafe, or a bank and a cafe combined, like this one in Milford.
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13. A harness shop, where you could get your high-quality harness hand-made right there in the shop.
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14. A general store, which also served as a post office, coffee shop, clothing store, shopping mall, and grocery store.
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Judging from these photos, do you believe life was simpler in Iowa during the 1930s than it is today? Share your thoughts with us below! Also, if you have any interesting stories regarding the 1930s, we would love for you to share those with us as well!

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