About this episode

This episode explores the Lazy Husbands Act of 1913 and its impact on family desertion and social justice in Washington State.

Explore the hidden histories of family desertion and social justice in our latest episode! Discover how the Lazy Husbands Act of 1913 aimed to support abandoned families in Washington State, and what actually happened. Tune in for an insightful discussion that connects the past with our present. Don't miss it! In this enlightening episode of Invisible Histories , hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala delve into the complexities of early 20th-century social welfare in Washington State, focusing on the 1913 Family Desertion Act, often referred to as the "Lazy Husbands Act." The discussion unveils the harsh realities faced by women and children abandoned by their husbands and fathers during a time when economic instability alcohol abuse, and gambling were rampant. As they explore the historical context of this legislation, Cari and Elke highlight the establishment of county poor farms, including the infamous Willows Farm, where men convicted of family desertion were put to work to support their families. The hosts reflect on the societal implications of these laws, the struggles of the women left behind, and the ongoing relevance of these issues in today’s world. Listeners are invited…

People in this episode

Hosts: Cari Simson, Elke Hautala

Topics covered

• family desertion
• social justice
• early 20th-century social welfare
• women's struggles
• historical legislation
• marginalized communities

Keywords

• Lazy Husbands Act
• family desertion
• social welfare
• Washington State
• historical context
• women and children
• economic instability
• county poor farms

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Washington State, Willows Farm

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