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Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Item
Title
D8652-41
Date(s)
- 1939-07-22 (Creation)
Extent
Name of creator
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
This truck covered in red, white and blue bunting and awnings was entered by one of the many "Townsend Clubs" in the July 22, 1939 Golden Jubilee Parade. The sign on the top promotes "The Townsend Plan for National Prosperity." A sign on the side reads "The Townsend Plan is the only Recovery Plan." Other signs promote "Townsend Plan gives our youth a chance" and "Work for Youth." Directly behind the cab of the truck ride several young women and under the awning ride several of the seniors that supported the Plan. The Plan was formulated in 1934 by Dr. Francis E. Townsend and called for a $200 a month pension for each retired person over the age of 60. The money had to be spent within that 30 days, insuring circulation of funds. It would be financed by a 2% federal sales tax. The Plan had a strong following among seniors, many who had their savings and retirement funds wiped out by the Depression. Although never adopted, the movement had a strong political base.
Washington State Golden Jubilee, 1939--Tacoma; Parades & processions--Tacoma--1930-1940;