Our exhibit, Making Connecticut, showcases over 500 objects, images, and documents from the CHS collection. “What is this?” posts will highlight an object from the exhibit and explore its importance in Connecticut history every other week. What is this object? What is the story behind it? To find out more,
Poster for the Connecticut Works Progress Association, “Learn to Can—Live High all Winter!”, 1935, CHS Collection.
To conserve scarce resources during World War II, the federal government began a program to ration food, as well as non-food items like gasoline, tires, clothing, and even typewriters. An approved application was required for large purchases like a new stove.
Sugar Allowance Coupon, CHS Collection
Individuals and families received coupons to purchase specific items like sugar or coffee, or they could use ration stamps and tokens to buy products like processed foods, meats, and cheese. Families also took a renewed interest (promoted by the government) in growing and canning or preserving their own food. Home-canned goods were not included in the ration program; hence the government sponsored workshops and pamphlets promoting the practice.
Mileage ration, CHS Collection
inside the CHS 