Hard Times in the Country

Memoir of the 1930s Great Depression

By: Clement T. "Bud" Mertens

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

A first-hand account of farm life in the 1930s

As a teenager during the Great Depression, Bud faces many hardships and family tragedies. With only an 8th grade education, he works hard to help his family put food on the table and stay together. When farmers are earning only 8 cents for a bushel of wheat, the family does whatever it takes to survive.

Supporting each other through tough times, Bud and his family demonstrate a can-do attitude and pride in what they can accomplish. The only way to get by is through their strong work ethic and frugal ways. Even after losing their home, they don’t lose hope.

Bud and his brothers hunt rabbits, pigeons, and even blackbirds for food. They cut timber from their hill farm to sell as firewood and shovel snow for 15 cents an hour. Despite their own hard times, they don’t hesitate to take in others who need a meal or a place to stay for the night.

Charmingly illustrated with artwork and photographs from the 1930s, Bud’s story of hope in the face of desperate trials will inspire you. With the support and commitment of his family, he survives the Great Depression and matures into a self-sufficient and compassionate young man.