As part of my research for my current work in progress, the third book in my historical series that is set around 1915 when the first world war had begun to rage in Europe, I purchased a copy of the May 1915 edition of the Ladies Home Journal. It is a wonderful snapshot of life at that time. Of course, the magazine is targeted at women. It’s a curious mix of enjoyment through fiction stories, advice on fashion and hairstyles, ideas for home decorating, household management, and much more.
What I found interesting is that adult women are referred to as “girls.” At first, I thought they were referring to teen girls, but it appears that the target audience is young married women who are housewives and mothers. Not much different than the current crop of women’s magazines, except these days many of them work outside the home.
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| Who wouldn't love a new outfit for touring in your new automobile or a round of golf? |
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| More pretty hats to wear |
Of course, as now, there is always the mundane part of life that involves keeping your house clean and food on the table.
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There is much more to be mined from this wonderful magazine and I will likely post more in future months.
Have you ever looked at magazines or newspapers from the past? I think it's great fun.
Resource: Ladies Home Journal, May 1915; Curtis Publishing Company, Edited by Edward W. Bok
About Pamela:
Pamela has written most of her life, beginning with her first diary at age eight. Her novels include Thyme For Love, Surprised by Love in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and Second Chance Love. Future novels include Shelter Bay, Book 2 in her Newport of the West series set in her hometown of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and Whatever is True, a contemporary romance. She lives in northeastern Illinois with her two rescue cats.
Watch for the next book in this series coming May 2019!
