Historic Hood River
Civil Defense
Notes
Fear of military action reaching our shores led to “Civil Defense” committees being formed across the country during World War II. The Oregon State College Extension Services annual report described how the valley was divided into Civil Defense districts based on our six rural fire districts. These women were part of the Parkdale Civil Defense district. The county purchased marine pumps, and the volunteers were trained by US Foresters and the Hood River Fire Department.
This image is from an exercise where the districts competed by driving two blocks, running out 200 ft. pf hose, starting their pumper and throwing water. Odell won with a time of 52 seconds.
The County Agent added the note, “Assistance has been given to this program as possible, without appearing to try to take over. It is a good set up and should not be disturbed.”
Tags: 1940s, Civil Defense, fire engine, fire truck, Parkdale, Sheppards, State Street
kmb
Women in pants!
nels
I guess the war effort that hadto use women in traditional male oriented jobs must have broken the barrier between women wearing dresses only and then wearing slacks in the factories andfarms. THe war changed a lot of such things.
L.E.
Norman Rockwell's Rosie the Riveter is wearing overall pants.