Journey From the Dust

Dust Bowl and the Great Depression

What would you do if you lost it all?

Understand the impact of poverty and economic prejudice, as one young Oklahoman strives to create a future for himself and his family after losing everything to the Dust Bowl and Great Depression of the 1930s.

After their farm and livelihood are destroyed, Mark must separate from his family and strike out alone, riding the rails from Oklahoma to California to Washington’s Grand Coulee Dam in search of the chance for a fresh start.

Preview

Living Voices brings life to history

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Recommended audiences

Recommended audiences:
4th grade through adult

Curriculum Connections

Great Depression | Dust Bowl | US History | Civics/Government | Literature | Theatre / Drama | Media / Television - Film

Common Core Standards

Literacy in History/Social Studies | Speaking & Listening | Reading

Endorsements and Affiliations

National Council of Teachers of English, Washington State Historical Society, Washington Service Corps

Audiences respond

“We have always loved the in-person presentations, but we are impressed and grateful that we could bring this production to our students virtually. During a time when our students have been faced with many disappointments, I believe we offered a memorable experience they will consider a highlight of their school year.”
-Amy Galloway, West Patent Elementary School, NY 

Report: Asbury Park, NJ

Student and teacher resources

Journey From the Dust study guide
Performance Setup Guide

Civilian Conservation Corps History Center
National New Deal Preservation Association
Library of Congress Dust Bowl Migration Classroom Materials

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