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BEFORE THE UNITED STATES RAILWAY LABOR BOARD. 1920
^^
,V
Studies of the
Cost of Maintaining a Family
at a Level of Health and
Reasonable Comfort
PRESENTED BY
W. JETT LAUCK
ON BEHALF OF
OFTHE
OF
W. S. STONE,
jOrand Chief Engineer. Brotherhood of Locomo-
tive Engineers.
L. E. SHEPPARD.
President, Order of Uailroad Conductors.
S. E. HEBERLIXG.
[President. Switchmen's Union of North America.
LOUIS WEYAND.
|Actiiig International President. International
i'.rotherhooil of lioilerniakers. Iron Ship-
builders and Helpers of America.
J. .1. HYNES,
[Liicrnational President. Amalgamated Sheet-
.Metal Worljers" International Alliance.
J. P. NOONAN,
lluternational President. International Brother-
hood of Biectrical Workers.
TIMOTHY SHEA.
{Assistant President. Brotherhood of Locomotive
Firemen and Engiuemen.
W. G. LEE,
President, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen.
WM. H. JOHNSTON.
Ilnternational President. International Associa-
tion of Machinists.
J. W. KLINE.
General President. International Brotherhood
of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers.
MARTIN F. RYAN,
General President. Brotherhood Railway Car-
men of America.
E. J. MANION,
President, Order of Railroad Telegraphers.
F. GRABLE.
<;rand President. United Brotherhood of M. of
W. Employees and Railroad Shop Laborers.
E. J. FITZGERAIjD.
Grand President. Brotherhood of Railway and
Steamship Clerks. Freight Handlers, Express
and Statron Employees.
D. W. IIELT.
President, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen
of America.
TIMOTHY HEALY.
President. International Brotherhood of Sta-
tionary Firemen and Oilers.
B. M. JEWELL.
President. Railway Employees Department,
American Federation of Labor.
Before the United States Railway Labor Board. 1920
Studies of the
Cost of Maintaining a Family
at a Level of Health
and Reasonable
Comfort
Presented by W. Jett Lauck
INTRODUCTION
Budgetary studies have two phases. The first is the determina-
tion of the standards and quantities of things necessary to main-
tain a family at a certain level of living. The second is to ascertain
the cost of the items arrived at as necessary for the purpose men-
tioned. The determination of the quantity budget is of course the
more difficult. The pricing of the quantity budget is a mere
mechanical detail, involving nothing more than careful field work.
The ultimate interest, however, lies in the cost of the budget. For
the practical value of such studies is to ascertain in what degree a
particular group of people are attaining the living standards set up,
and this is most readily measured in terms of dollars and cents. On
the other hand, it must always be remembered that the cost of a
budget is a changing thing, fluctuating with the changes in prices,
and that the tests of sufficiency or insufficiency are the items them-
selves, not their cost.
Budgetary studies of the character referred to had their scientific
beginning in this country with Chapin's "The Standard of Living
in Now York City"' (1907) and More's "Wage-Earners' Budgets"
(190;i-190.jj. These were followed by other careful investigations,
such as those of the New York State Factory Investigation Com-
mission and the Bureau of Per.sonal Service of the Board of Esti-
mate and Apportionment of New Y'ork City in 1915.'
K^cently the growing interest in the subject of a living wage has
stimulated a series of studies, which, because they had the work of
earlier students and investigators to build upon, are more compre-
hensive and more accurate than the pioneer studies could be. The
subject is still not upon a plane of absolute scientific precision, but
the recently published reports of the United States Bureau of Labor
Statistics, the National Industrial Conference Board and the Phila-
delphia Bureau of Municipal Research ofter material of very great
value for a final solution of the problem. All of these studies ap-
^A summary of the more important of the earlier studies was published in 1919
under the title of "Standards of Living" by the Bureau of Applied Economics, Wash-
ington, D. C.
luirently seek l(» dcteiinine about I he same level of living — one that
will assure health and reasonable comfort — although the definitions
are not always ])re(ise.
The present volume gives digests of the more imi)(>rtant of the
recent studies just leferred to. Because of the character of the
subject matter, it is necssary that these digests be fairly full. Also
because of the character of the subject matter, it is ditticult to sum-
maiize the seveial studies for jturposes of easy com])arison. On the
single point of moin'v cost, however, a faii'ly satisfactory comparison
can be made. The following table offers such a comparison for five
of the studies in this volume.
Owing to the fact that these studies were uot all made at the same
time, the cost of each must be considered in relation to the date
upon which pi icing was done. The last column of the table gives
the approximate cost of each budget at the present time (May.
1920). Tn computing the present cost, figures of i)rice increases
]»ublished by the National Industrial Conference Board have been
used, as these are the latest available and in the past have followed
very closely the figures of the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Tn
certain cases where the figures for a particular mouth were not
available, interpolation has been necessary. The increase in general
cost of living between March and May has been estimated at 1 per
cent from the course of wholesale prices as reported by Dun and
Bradstreet.
The budgets compared in the table are :
1. The Washington, D. C, budget of the V. S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics (without deductions).
2. The Bituminous Coal Miners" budget of Professor
Ogburn.
3. The budget worked out by the Philadelphia Bureau
of Municipal Research.
4 and 5. The Fall Kiver and Lawrence budgets of the
National Industrial Conference Board (the ''more liberal
standard" being used in each case).
COMPARISON OF COSTS
Of Family Budgets of Health and Reasonable Comfort Suggested! by Recent Studies.
Washington
Budget.
August,
1919.
Food
Clothing
Housing
Fuel and Light
Miscellaneous
Total cost when study
was made
Estimated Increase in
Cost of Living since
study was made. . . .
Approximate cost May,
1920
$773.93
513.72
300.00
128.00
546.82
2,262.47
12%
2,533.97
Ogburn's
Coal
Miners'
Budget.
January,
1920.
$801.38
455.26
216.00
70.00
576.30
2,118.94
37c
2,182.51
Philadelphia
Budget.
Autumn,
1918.
$660.09
299.43
240.00
75.00
362.27
1,636.79
28%
2,095.09
Fall River
Budget.
October,
1919.
$631.80
322.25
182.00
84.25
353.60
1,573.90
9%
1,715.55
Lawrence
Budget.
November,
1919.
$652.60
340.26
234.00
87.98
343.20
1,658.04
8%
1,790.68
I
BUDGET FOR A GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE'S FAMILY
IN WASHINGTON, D. C.
This report presents the results of a study made by the United
States Bureau of Labor Statistics to determine the cost of maintain-
ing the family of a Government employee in Washington at a level
of health and decency. This involved two inquiries: (1) The estab-
lishing of a "quantity budget,'' i. e., the number or quantity of the
various things necessary to maintain the living level referred to;
and (2) the ascertaining of the total cost of such a budget at the
prices prevailing in Washington at the present time (August, 1919).
Difficulty of Establishing a Proper Budget Level.
Previous studies of the subject have analyzed the conception of a
budget level and have distinguished several levels. Some of the
more important of these are as follows:
(a) The pauper or poverty level. — This represents roughly a
standard of living just above where families receive aid from charity
or where they run into serious debt.
(&) The minimum of suhsistence level. — This is based essentially
on mere animal existence and allows little or nothing for the needs
of men as social creatures.
(c) The minimum of health and eomfort level. — This represents
a slightly higher level than that of subsistence, providing not only
for the material needs of food, shelter, and body covering, but also
for certain comforts, such as clothing sufficient for bodily comfort
and to maintain the wearer's instinct of self-respect and decency,
some insurance against the more important misfortunes — death,
disability, and fire— good education for the children, some amuse-
ment, and some expenditures for self-development.
Inasmuch as the primary aim of this study was to furnish infor-
mation for use by the Joint Commission of Congress on Reclassifi-
9
10
fijtion of Salaries, ilu- iiiiiiimuin (»f licalili. (icccncy. and comfort
was kopt ill iiiiiid in (hMcriniiiinji llic (|iiaiilil.v l>u<i;i;er aud in selert-
iiij; (|iialiti('s and asccilaininji piict's <d" articles of the budfjet.
Clearly neither a pauper itud^et level nor a mere subssisteuce level
should or . (tnld he submit te«l. liul. when the etl'ort was made to jjo
fui-ther than this, lo (h'termine a level abo\(' mere sid>sisteuce. but
not so hiijh as to be unreasonable for the purpose for which it was
lo be used, serious dilliculties arose. Part of the difficulty was a
matter of terminology. IMirases such as "a comfort level" or a "level
of reasonable comfoi-t" are by no means clear cut, and much dis-
cussion can arise as to just what ])arlicular "comforts" sliould be
included.
Budget T>kvkl Used ix This Study.
Finally, after long consideration, it was decided to use as a work-
ing basis a budget level which can be best expressed perhaps by the
uhrase ''a standard of health and decency." This phrase is not
(Mitirely precise in meaning. No i)hrase of the kind can very well
he wholly satisfactory. The budget herewith suggested is intended
to give to the average family, consisting of husband, wife, and three
children below the age of 14 years —
(1) A sufficiency of nourishing food for the maintenance <»f
health, particularly the children's health ;
(2) Housing in low-rent neighborhoods and within the smallest
]>os!?ible number of rooms consistent with decency, but with suffi
cient light, heat, and toilet facilities for the maintenance of health
and decency ;
(3) The upkeeji of household equipment, such as kitchen uten-
sils, bedding, and linen, necessars' for health, but with no provision
for the purchase of additional furniture;
^4) Clothing sufficient for warmth, of a sufficiently good (piality
to be economical, but with no fui'ther regard for appearance and
style than is necessary to permit the family members to appear in
public and within their rather narrow social circle without sloven-
liness or loss of self-respect.
to) A surplus over the above expenditures which would permit
of only a minimum outlay for such necessary demands as —
(a) Street car fares to and from work and necessary rides to
stores and markets;
(5) The keeping up of a modest amount of insurance;
(c) Medical and dental cai'e;
(d) Tontributions to churches and labor or beneficial organi-
zations ;
11
(e) Simple amusements, siieli as the moving pictures once in
a while, occasional street car rides for pleasure, some
Christmas gifts for the children, etc.;
{f) Daily newspaper.
The St.vndard Family.
This budget has been worked out for a family consisting of hus-
band, wife, and thret^ dei)endent children — a boy of 11, a girl of ."5,
and a boy of 2 years of age. The number in the family and the ages
of the children conform closely to the standards used by the Bureau
of Labor Statistics and other investigators in the past. The deter-
mining factor in selecting the standard family, however, was the fact
that a family of this particular size and composition represents
actual existing families in the United States. The average number
in the white families scheduled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
was 4.1) individuals (equivalent to 3.33 adult males), which corre-
sponds very closely with the standard family of 5 individuals
(equivalent to 3.35 adult males). /The assumption that the three
children of the family are, respectively, a boy aged 2 years, a girl
as:ed 5 veai^s, and a bov aged 11 vears, is, of course, arbitrarv and is
vsolely for the purpose of making precise calculations as to food and
clothing consumption. The children in this standard family arc
growing children, not yet able to add anything to the family income,
and not so expensive to maintain as they will become a few years
later. This standard family is about half way between the family
with no children and the family with grown children capable of self-
sn])j)ort.
BuDGKT OF Health axd Decency Not Intended As An Ideal.
It needs to be em]»hasized that the budget level ado|)ted in the
})resent study is in no way intended as an ideal budget. It was
intended to establish a bottom level of health and decency below
which a family cannot go without danger of j)hysical and moral
deterioration. This budget does not include many comforts wbiclt .
should be included in a proi)er ''American standard of living."
Thus no provision is directly made for savings other than insuiance.
nor for vacations, nor for books and other educational purposes.
On the other hand, a family with the items listed in this budget
should be able to maintain itself in health and modest comfort.
It would have a sutficiency of food, respectable clotliing. sanitary
housing, and a minimum of the essential '"sundries."'
12
TiiK Cost or a I{ri»(;i:i' Lkvkl Not Nkckssarilv a Fixkd
Money Cost.
The iinmial c*xj»ense of inainliiininj? Ihe luid<j;et level above de-
scribed may be arrived al \)\ oblaiiiinj;: and totaling the eiirrent
prices on each of the individual items enlerinji; into the budget.
This has been done as jtarf of the present study and a total figure
arrived at whicii measures the annual money cost of all the budget-
ary items at the prices now prevailing in Washington, D. (\
It is highly important to note, however, that the maintenance of
living on the level indicated does not necessarily require the receipt
of an annual income of precisely this amount. This is so for several
reasons. Thus the family here used as a basis of computation is
one consisting of husband, wife and three dependent < hildren, 11, 5,
and 2 vears old. A uewlv married couple does not start house-
keeping with a family of 3 children. It is assumed that before mar-
riage and in the early years of marriage savings will have been accu-
mulated either in the form of money savings, household equipment,
or partial ownership of a home. These accumulations must be
depended upon to tide the family over the period when the children
become the greatest burden, just before the oldest one is able to
earn his own support in whole or in large part. This budget assumes
the existence of an equipment of household furniture, as it is gen-
erally true that married couples do purchase the major part of their
household furniture either at marriage or shortly thereafter. If the
family has savings invested, the family income is supplemented by
the amount of interest received; if the house is owned the cost of
the budget level here provided for would be reduced by the saving
in the expenditure for rent. Another factor tending to reduce the
cost of the budget below the market cost of the individual items is
the extraordinary ingenuity of most families in economizing, ])ar-
ticularly when the need for the closest economy is regarded as only
of temporary duration. This ingenuity expresses itself in many
ways, and, for the most part, ways which a budget study such as the
present one cannot specify or estimate. The average housewife is
iieta perfect cook, a perfect seamstress, or a perfect '^shopper." nor
does she have time, even if she has the ability, to attain 100 per cent
efficiency in cooking, tailoring, sho})j)ing, and the many other skilled
trades which she must practice as time and capacity permit. On
the other hand, almost every housewife does ])ossess certain abilities
along one or more lines and by the exercise thereof is able to reduce
expenditures along these lines to below the average. However, no
housewife can reasonably be expected to ])erform more than one
miracle of domestic economy each day.
13
In many families the husband, and even the children, are able to
contribute certain services — such as marketing, housework, repairs
of household — which may reduce the need for actual money expendi-
ture or may permit the housewife to do a greater amount of sew-
ing, such as the making over of garments.
In these and many other ways families are often — it might even
be said usuallv — able to maintain a decent standard of living at a
somewhat lesser cost than the market prices of the budgetary
items. Clearly these economies can be effected only at considerable
sacrifice of time and convenience, and the possibilities of such
economies are often greatly overestimated. The not infrequent criti-
cism of standards of living studies that families do actually live on
smaller incomes than those indicated is, in itself, not a valid criti-
cism. Families may and do live, although underfed, underclothed,
unhealthily housed, overworked, especially the wife and mother, and
deprived, particularly the children, of many things essential to the
development of healthy and useful citizens. *
»
Summary of Budget.
Cost of quantity budget at market prices.
I. Food $773.93
II. Clothing:
Husband $121.16
Wife 166.46
Boy (11 years) 96.60
Girl (5 years) S2M
Boy (2 years) 47.00
513.72
III. Housing, fuel, and light 428.00
IV. Miscellaneous 546.82
Total budget at market prices 2,262.47
Possible saving upon market cost by a family of extreme thrift, of high
intelligence, great industry in shopping, good fortune in purchasing at
lowest prices, and in which the wife is able to do a maximum amount of
home work:
I. Food (7% per cent) $58.04
II. Clothing (10 per cent) 51.37
III. Housing 30.00
IV. Miscellaneous 107.50
Total economics 246.91
Total budget minus economies $2,015.56
Savinys. — No provision is made in this budget for savings, other
than the original cost of household furniture and equipment, which
would average about f 1,000 in value. Xo definite estimate, of
course, can be made as to the amount which a low-salaried Govern-
ment employee should be exi)ected to save. But an average saving
of I2V2 V^v cent of yearly salary during an employee's single and
early married life would seem to be the maximum which could be
14
oxjx'ctofl. Ovci- ;i pciiod of. s:iy, ITt vcars lliis would result in a
lotal accmimljition of about #1'.(M)(>. Assiiniinj; S!1,()(K> of this to
be invested in household iH]uij»nient. there would be a net sum «)!'
f 1,000 available for investment in a honu' oi- in other direct income-
producinji form. In an.v case, it would rejtresent an annual income
of approximately ^^■>iK
Itrniizal Details of Budget.
I. FOOD.
Item.
Unit of
usual
purchase.
Weekly
quantity
per family
of 3.35
equivalent
adult.
males.
Weekly
cost.
Beef and veal, fresh'
Beef, salt'
Pork, fresh'
Pork, salt, including smoked ham and bacon'
Mutton'
Poultry'
Other meat, including sausage, dried beef, etc.'.
Fish and other sea food'
Eggs
Milk, sweet, and buttermilk"
Cream
Milk, condensed
Butter and oleomargarine
Cheese
Tea
Coffee and substitutes
Sugar
Molasses, including sirup and honey
Lard and compounds
Flour
Corn meal
Bread'
Rice
Cereals
Fruits, fresh ,
Fruits, dried and canned
Potatoes
Other vegetables, fresh and dried
Other vegetables, canned
Other food'
Weekly total .
Yearly total.
Ice
Total.
Pound
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
Dozen
Quart
Pint
Pound
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
Peck
Pound
do.
do.
4.35
.38
.74
1.03
.60
.52
.66
1.31
1.31
8.86
.06
1.25
1.87
.38
.19
.78
3.13
.68
1.10
7.50
1.23
9.66
.85
2.21
7.71
.70
.95
10.89
.84
1.83
$1.64
.14
.38
.53
.22
.24
.25
.39
.79
1.35
.02
.25
1.18
.19
.15
.41
.34
.12
.44
.60
.07
1.01
.14
.33
.70
.18
.71
.88
.24
-.66
'•$14.55
'$755.93
18.00
$773.93
'Total meat and fish equivalent to 1.37 pounds per day.
"Equivalent to 1.27 quarts of milk per day.
"Equivalent to 1.38 pound loaves of bread per day.
'Including crackers, cake, pies, ice cream, candy, jelly, oil, chocolate, peanut butter,
cocoa, nuts, gelatin and canned soup.
'The weekly quantity budget has been drafted from the year's budget, which
explains the slight difference in cost between the weekly total and the yearly total.
15
II. CLOTHING.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Husband.
Hat, felt
Hat, straw
Suit, winter (wool)
Suit, summer (wool)
Overcoat
Raincoat
Shirts, cotton
Union suit, summer
Union suit, winter (part wool)
Pajamas
Socks, cotton
Shoes:
High
Low
Shoe repairing:
Whole soles
Half soles, including heel..
Rubbers
Gloves, kid
Collars
Ties
Handkerchiefs
Garters
Belt
Suspenders
Umbrella
Cleaning, pressing
.Miscellaneous
$4.00
2.00
40.00
40.00
40.00
15.00
2.00
1.50
3.50
2.50
.50
7.50
7.50
3.50
2.50
1.25
3.00
.25
.50
.25
.35
1.50
.75
4.00
1.50
Total.
Wife.
Summer clothing.
Hat
Wash skirt
Waists, cotton (to be made at home)
Waist, dress
Dresses, cotton, thin (to be made at home)
Underwear (separate garments or union
suits)
Petticoats, cotton, muslin
Shoes, tow
Gloves, cotton
Winter clothing.
Hat
Suit, wool
Dress, wool serge
Coat, wool
Petticoat, dark cotton
Underwear (union suit, part wool)
Shoes, high
Gloves, kid
$7.50
5.00
2.50
7.50
5.00
1.00
2.00
8.50
1.00
10.00
53.00
25.00
50.00
3.00
3.00
9.50
2.50
¥2
y2
5
3
1
1
12
V2
12
3
8
2
1^
1L
X<,
5
$2.00
' 2.00
20.00
20.00
10.00
2.50
10.00
4.50
3.50
2.50
6.00
7.50
3.75
3.50
2.50
.63
1.50
3.00
1.50
2.00
.70
.50
.75
1.33
6.00
3.00
$121.16
%
$7.50
2.50
7.50
3.75
10.00
3.00
2.00
8.50
1.00
5.00
26.50
12.50
16.66
3.00
3.00
9.50
1.25
16
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Year-round clothing.
Houae dresses
Apron, kitchen
Corset (standard make)
Corset covers
Brassieres
Night dresses
Kimono
Stockings, cotton
Shoe repairing:
New heels
Whole soles
Handkerchiefs
Umbrella
Rubbers
Cleaning and pressing. . . .
Miscellaneous
Total.
Boy, 11 Te^rs of Age.
Caps or hats
Suit, wool
Pants, separate, wool (winter)
Pants, separate, wool and cotton (summer)
Overcoat
Sweater
Overalls
Shirts or blouses, cotton
Summer underwear (union suits)
Winter underwear (union suits)
Pajamas or nightshirts
Stockings
Shoes :
High
Low
Shoe repairing (whole soles)
Rubbers
Gloves or mittens
Collars
Ties
Handkerchiefs
Garters
Belt
Miscellaneous
$3.00
.60
6.00
.85
.50
1.50
4.50
.65
.40
3.00
.25
3.00
1.50
3.00
$1.00
16.00
3.00
2.00
12.50
6.00
1.25
1.15
1.00
3.00
1.00
.60
5.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
.50
.25
.50
.10
.25
.60
2
1
1
3
2
2
%
^/3
2
1
1
2
V2.
1
5
3
2
2
12
^k
$6.00
.60
6.00
2.55
1.00
3.00
2.25
5.20
1.20
3.00
2.00
1.00
1.50
3.00
5.00
Total.
I
$166.46
$2.00
16.00
3.00
4.00
6.25
3.00
1.25
5.75
3.00
6.00
2.00
7.20
15.00
6.00
10.00
1.00
1.00
.75
1.00
.60
.50
.30
1.00
$96.60
17
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Girl, 5 Years of Age.
Hat, summer
Cap or hat, winter:
Cap
Hat
Dresses, cotton (to be made at home)
Dress, wool (to be made at home)
Apron (to be made at home)
Coat
Sweater
Cotton petticoats:
Muslin
Outing flannel
Summer underwear:
Shirts
Drawers, muslin
Underwaists
Winter underwear:
Shirts, wool
Drawers, wool
Nightdresses:
Muslin
Outing flannel
Stockings, cotton
Shoes :
High
Low
Rubbers
Mittens
Handkerchiefs
Garters
Miscellaneous
Total.
Boy, 2 Years of Age.
Hats or caps:
Hat, duck
Cap
Dresses, cotton suits, rompers,
etc. (to be made at home) . . . ,
Overcoat
Sweater
Summer underwear:
Undershirts ,
Drawers, muslin
Underwaists
Winter underwear:
Undershirts
Drawers
Replace-
ment per
year.
overalls.
$5.00
2.00
5.00
2.25
6.00
1.00
15.00
4.00
1.00
1.50
.50
.30
.75
1.50
1.50
1.00
1.25
.40
4.00
3.00
.85
.50
.10
.25
$ .50
.75
1.00
12.00
3.50
.50
.30
.65
1.00
1.00
%
¥2
2
1
3
5
4
2
2
1
1
12
3
1
1
6
2
^k.
o
4
9
■J
2
Yearly cost.
$5.00
2.00
13.50
3.00
1.00
7.50
2.00
2.00
1.50
1.50
1.50
3.00
3.00
3.00
1.00
1.25
4.80
12.00
9.00
.85
.50
.60
.50
2.50
$82.50
\ .50
.75
8.00
6.00
1.75
1.50
.90
2.60
2.00
2.00
18
II. CLOTHING— Concluded.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
IJoy, i Years of Age^ConcludHl
Nightdresses :
Muslin
Outing flannel
Stockings and socks, cotton.
Shoes :
High
Low (sandals)
Mittens
Garters
Miscellaneous
$1.00
1.25
.39
3.50
3.00
.35
.25
Total.
1
1
10
2
2
1
2
$1.00
1.25
3.90
7.00
6.00
.35
.50
1.00
$47.00
III. HOUSING. FUEL, AND LIGHT $428.00
(This item covers rent at $300 a year, and fuel and light at $128 a year.)
IV. MISCELLANEOUS.
Upkeep of house, furniture, and furnishings $70.00
Laundry work 104.00
Cleaning supplies and services 32.92
Health 80.00
Insurance:
(a) Life (disability) 110.00
(b) Furniture 1..50
Car fare:
Husband, 600 rides
Wife and children, 300 rides
Amusements and recreation
Newspapers
Organizations:
(a) Church
( b) Labor
Incidentals
30.00
15.00
20.00
8.40
13.00
10.00
52.00
$546.82
DETAILED DATA TPON WHICH P.rDCiET IS I5ASED.
I. Food.
Ill the cleteniiiiiatioii of a proper family dietary ilii'ie are two
.standards which must be assumed at the beginning, i 1 i tlie scieutiti
cally established food requirement in calories per day, and (2) the
commonly recognized unit of measure of the size of family in equiva-
lent adult males.
Various scientific students of food have estimated that the number
of calories needed by a man at moderately hard muscular work is
:{,.~)(K) per day. A family usually wastes about lU per cent of the
caloric value of food in preparation, cooking, etc., and also a small
})er cent of the food which enters the mouth is not digested or assimi-
lated. Therefore, 3,500 calories purchased represents approximately
:>,100 to 0,200 calories actually consumed by the body. The standard
of 3,500 calories is for a man at moderately hard muscular work, and
since most Government clerks are engaged in very light muscular
labor the 3,100-3,200 calories would appear to be sufficient. On the
other hand, when Government emjjloyees are taken as a whole, and
when those who are engaged in moderately hard physical work in the
(Tovernmeut Printing Office and the Bureau of Engraving and Print-
ing are taken into consideration, the allowance of 3,500 calories pur-
chasfd to yield 3,100-3.200 seems to be none too high.
The standard of a definite number of calories per man per day
makes it necessary to ascertain the food requirements of the other
members of the family and convert them into terms of a common
unit of measurement, namely, the equivalent adult male. In order
to make precise calculations, the following food budget has been
drawn up on the basis of a family of 5 — husband, wife, and 3 chil-
dren, boy, aged 11; girl, 5, and boy, 2. According to the .standard
established by the United t^tates Bureau of Labor Statistics, taking
the caloric requirement of a man as 1.0, that of a woman is 0.0; a
boy of 11 years, 0.9; a girl of 5 years, 0.1; and a boy of 2 years, 0.15.
The combined food requirements of this family, which is considered
an average-sized family and has been taken as a iKtrniai family,
would be equal to that of 3.35 adult males.
The quantity food budget submitted here as representing the mini-
mum food requirements of a family of 5 was obtained by averaging
the actual amounts of food used by 2Sn selected families witli three
19
20
chihlrcii of ;ili<)Ut the Mj^cs iiidicalcd. The fiiiiiilics clioseii from each
city averafxed in size approximately .'5..'>r) e(piivalent adult males, and
3,500 calories of food purchased per man i)er day. On furtlier de-
tailed analysis, and by compaiison with ;i rccojjjnized standard, thti
average dietary of o.oOO calories thus obtained was found to consist
of meat, milk, vegetables, etc., in such ])roportions as to furnish the
body in a general way with the necessary amounts of ])roteins, fats,
carbo-hydrates, mineral constituents, acids, and other substances
necessary for the maintenance of iiealth. Following is a comparison
of the food allowance of this budget with the miinmum standards
generally accepted by scientitic students of the subject:
OUNCES OF FOOD CONSUMED PER MAN PER DAY.
1 Dairy
Meat. ! Fish, prod-
ucts.
Milk.
Ce-
reals.
1
Vege- 1 Fruits,
tables. 1
Fats. Sugar.
1
Average of 280|
families . .. .| 5.6
Standard ! 4 or 5
1
0.9
2
15.5
16
12.1
11 or 12
15.1
12
17.6 5.8
16 or 20 16 or 20
2.1
2
2.7
2
The 2S() food budgets used in obtaining this average were selected
from family schedules collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
in the recent cost-of-living survey of the United States. These sched-
ules were taken in great detail, giving, among other thing.s, the
amount of each article of food purchased for a year for each family
scheduled. The 280 budgets used in this detailed caloric analysis
were made up from about 25 cases from each of 11 representative
cities.
It would, of course, have been preferable to analyze in detail 280
food budgets collected from families in the District of Columbia, but
the time allowed for the present minimum budget prohibited any such
])lan. It seems likely, however, that the average dietary here pre-
sented is not far from correct. By taking an average of families
located over a considerable area, all local peculiarities and extreme
tastes should have been smoothed out. The applicability of this
average budget to the city of Washington is further substantiated by
the fact that the population here is unusually cosmopolitan, due to
the working of the apportioned civil service.
Another i)ossibility would have been to use accepted standards as
a guide and construc^ a dietary composed of meats, vegetables, milk,
etc., which would meet the ideal requirements. This method, how-
ever, would have been difficult, more or less arbitrary, and subject to
21
the criticism tliat it would not meet the actual desires and peculiari-
ties of people as they are. Of course, the average dietary has its
obvious defects, and is not recommended as ideal. For instance, it
is highly desirable, from both an economical and a dietary stand-
point, for a family to secure its protein by the use of more eggs and
less meat than the quantities used in the average budget. As here
I)resented, the food budget which has been arrived at is based on
what the experience of a large number of families in various sections
of the country shows to be a practical minimum for the maintenance
of health. That the selection of foodstuffs is probably as economical
as is consistent with a fairlv balanced diet is indicated bv the fact
that the families whose dietaries are here used were all workingmen's
families in moderate circumstances. * * *
II, Clothing.
The quantities of the different kinds of clothing required by the
standard family have been arrived at by personal interviews with
Government employees and their wives and others familiar with the
standard of living required of the Government worker's family in
Washington, and have been checked with several previous studies,
particulai'ly with the clothing budgets of approximately 850 families
with children under l.j secured by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in
1918-19.
In preparing the following budget the quantity of clothing based
on length of wear has been made fundamental and agreed upon
before tabulating prices. The quantities listed in the budget are for
annual replacements, and it has been assumed that the amounts
listed will be supplemented by the ''holdover" of similar garments
from the previous year. In the case of a garment which may be
expected reasonably to last over a period longer than one year, the
annual amount has been expressed in a fraction, i. e., a coat to be
worn two years, as i^ ; three, as %, etc.
A few possible alternatives have been suggested, and individual
tastes will, of course, make other changes and adjustments necessary
for each family.
Ill preparing this quantity budget a considerable amount of
sewing at home has been assumed as possible, and has been indicated
accordingly. When more than the si)ecified amount is done, a saving
may be effected, or the family clothed more abundantly. On the
other hand, where little or no home sewing can be done, economy will
need to be practiced in the number of garments or along other lines.
Theoretically, the level of health and decency in clothing has been
interpreted as a level winch tekps into account not only Uie physical
22
needs of wanutli, clcaiiliiK'ss aiul roiiitoit, but which also has suob
iv«,Mi(l for ai»i><'aiaiuo and style as Avill permit the family members
to appear in piildie, and within their necessarily rather narrow social
circle, with neatness and self-respect, hi other words, the clothing
standards of the family should provide a fair degree of that mental
satisfaclictn which follows from being reasonably well-dressed. 15ut
while admitting the desirability of this more genercms wardrobe, an
etVort has been made to allow only those (juantities of clothing con
sistent with the ininiiiiKm re<iuirement for health and decency, and.
where a doubt has existed, to err <m the side of conservatism rather
than to i»resent an opportunity for the criticism of extravagance.
So emphatic, however, have beeu the expressions of some who feel
that a decided error has been made on the side of rigid economy
that a supplemental list of highly desirable additions to the wife's
clothing has been prepared and made a part of this report. * * *
Siii)j)lnn(nt(il Lint of W'lfc^^ Clotliiiiff.
The clothing budget has been cut down to what amounts to aliiiost
a subsistence budget. In the case of the wife, it would be highly
desirable from the i»oint of view of <omfort and of the standar<l
expected of the wife of a Government employee that she be allowed
at least |5() more ])er year on her clothing budget. The jirices given
presuppose more time to liuul for good values than the aveiage
mother of three children can atl'ord. She is allowed no furs, and the
suit allowed is of rather light weight, so that for the sake of her own
lieallh it would be much better if she could atford to buy a better
coat for winter wear.
She has been allowed only one afternoon dress of wool to last two
years, and she has been allowed no dress petticoat to wear with it.
It would be much more satisfactory if she were allowed one jersey-
silk petticoat a year. This would cost a little more than the cotton
one, but would combine comfort and durability. It is questicmable
if the georgette waist allowed every other year can be made to last
two years even with the most careful laundering and this is her only
fancy blouse. The same is true of llie two cotton house dresses
allowed.
The wife has been allowed one wool dress every two years for
afternoon or evening wear. Aside from hei- suit and georgette blouse
this wool dress is the only garment she has to wear to social atfairs
of the church and conimnnity. A wool dress is essentially a business
or street dress, being too heavy and sombre for afternoon or evening
wear. A silk dress would be a much more satisfactory article with
which t(t sujiplement her suit and georgette blonse during the second
23
season's wear, when they have jjiown souiewhal worn and shabby.
The substitntion of a silk dress in place of wool serge will add only
|7.50 annually to the wife's clothinii: budget, as silk dresses of fair
quality can be bought in the Washington stores for |40.
Only two night dresses a year have been allowed, and these will
be insutticient if she has any illness during the year.
A winter hat has been allowed only every other year and no allow-
ance has been made for retrininiing. Without retriniming it will be
out of style by the second year, and while the average woman should
not and will not desire to wear extreme styles, neither will she wish
to be conspicuous because her clothing is entirely out of the prevail-
ing mode.
It would be highly desirable from the standpoint of comfort, and
I)robably of economy, if the wife were allowed two ])airs of silk
stockings each year. The cotton stockings on the market are of poor
grade and high price at the present time and neither so comfortable
nor neat looking as the silk hose.
The shoes allowed are heavy walking shoes. It would add to the
wife's comfort if she were allowed one pair of dress shoes at least
every other year. No allowance has been made for house slipj)ers,
and this means that she must make her low shoes of the previous
year hold over for this jmrpose.
The f5 allowance for miscellaneous items is very small when the
simplest collar and cutf set is at least a dollar, when hair nets that
last only a few days are 12^/2 cents each, and when all other miscel-
laneous items have doubled in price. It would appear that an
allowance of ^10 would more nearly meet her needs for miscellane-
ous items.
ADDITIONAL LIST OF DESIRABLE ARTICLES FOR WIFE'S CLOTHING.
Article.
Quantity
allowed.
Quantity
desirable.
Additional
cost to
yearly
budget.
Winter hat
Better quality winter coat
Silk petticoat
Silk stockings
Crepe de chine or georgette blouse.
Night dresses
House dresses
Dress shoes
House slippers
Miscellaneous
Sobstitution of silk dress for serge.
O
%
%
2
2
(')
1
%
1
2
1
3
3
%
"Tffttis.
$5.00
8.33
6.00
3.00
3.75
1.50
3.00
6.00
1.00
5.00
7.50
$50.08
(') Amount allowed, $5; amount desirable, $10.
24
II!. llousiXG, Fuel and Light,
Annual cost of rent, fuel, and light $^28
Housing fitandanl. — The luiniiuuin housing; standnrd for a family
of tivo has betMi taken as one of four rooms with bath and running
water. The possession of a bath and running water is necessary to
health and cleanliness. Moreover, at the present time practically
all houses and apartments in Washington are supjdied with these
conveniences, except very old structures, which even in other re-
spects cannot be accepted as offering decent and healthful housing.
The possession of four rooms is absolutely necessary to a family of
five to i)revent extreme overcrowding, and is, of course, the barest
minimum. It would mean a kitchen, a combined living and dining
room, and two bedrooms, with the necessity in nmny cases of the
combined living and dining room being also used as a sleeping room.
For the particular family used in this study as a type, five rooms
and bath would be the only comfortable minimum. In any case,
this strict minimum can apply only to apartments. The standard
small house in Washington is one of six rooms. Houses of four
and five rooms (except some very modern suburban bungalows) are
almost entirely very old structures without modern conveniences.
Fuel and light standard. — Certain previous attempts to erect
budgetary standards have assigned a specific amount of fuel and
light as a minimum — such, for instance, as one ton of coal per room
per year. This method, however, is not very satisfactory, especially
in a city like ^^'ashington, where apartment living is to prevalent.
Therefore, in the present study it has seemed better to base the
minimum on the usual expenditures for fuel and light, during the
past year, by families hou.sed according to the minimum housing
standards here adopted and which were not extravagant in their
use of fuel and light. By using this method the difficulty is avoided
of trying to erect minimum quantity standards for various sizes
and kinds of coal, and various lighting systems — gas, electricitv
and kerosene. The choice among the articles usually does not de-
pend ujion the desire of the occupant, but upon the character of the
house. * * •
IV. MiSCELLAXKOUS EXPENSES.
Upkeep of house furniture and furnishings ^70
The budget here prepared regards the initial furnishing of a house
with the more durable articles of furniture as a matter which the
25
prudent man and woman should attend to at the beginning of their
married life before they have the burden of a large family, and
therefore as an expense which need not be counted in attempting
to fix a living budget for a family when it is at its period of nmxi-
nium expense.
However, the upkeep of house furnishings, such as bedding,
towels, and kitchen and table ware, and also the replacement of
worn-out furniture, is a necessary, recurrent expenditure. Investi-
gation and study of existing data indicate that the cost of such up-
keep approximates (> per cent of the total value of the furniture and
furnishings of the usual household of persons in moderate circum-
stances.
A special investigation was made by agents of the Bureau of Labor
Statistics to determine the minimum amount of furniture and
furnishings necessary for a small house or apartment. Prices on
this minimum amount were secured from Washington stores in
August, 1919, and found to total |1,083. Even with the closest
economy in buying, including the i)urchase of some second-hand
furniture, this total could not well be reduced below $1,000. For
annual upkeep G per cent of this amount, or $60, would be nei^essary.
About |10 or $11 a year additional is required for gas mantles or
electric blubs, curtains, and a few other articles which could not be
estimated quantitatively. This would make the total minimum
annual expenditure for upkeep of house furnishings $70.
Laundry work, assistance with washing, 1 day per week $104
In the family of five used as a basis in the present budget esti-
mates, the wife is presumed to do the cooking for the family, to do
the cleaning of the house or apartment, to make most of the simpler
garments worn by herself and the children, to keep all clothes in
repair, to care for the children, and to do the marketing. It would
seem unreasonable to expect that in addition she should do the
laundry work entirely unassisted. Therefore, this budget has al-
lowed for the assistance of a person for one day each week and |2
per day seems to be the prevailing rate in ^Vashington for service of
this kind.
Cleaning suppUes and services $32.92
The following seems to be the minimum re<iuirement of cleaning
supplies and services to insure personal and household cleanliness.
(Mops, brooms and brushes are included under furnish incs.)
26
Cleaning supplies and services
I Unit price. | Quantity.
I
Personal: I
Toilet soap, small bar Ivory I $0.07
Toothbrush I -25
Toothpaste, tube or box I .25
Combs, hard rubber I -50
Hairbrushes I 1-50
Shoe polish, box I 15
Barber's services: I
Husband, hair cut I -50
Children, hair cut I -40
Household : I
Laundry soap, ^ L'-lb. bar I 06
Starch, pound ! 07
Cleanser, box I 05
Unspecified cleaning supplies and services, suchj
as borax, ammonia, washing powder, bluing,
insect powder, etc
Total.
70
5
12
1
%
12
8
120
6
Total cost.
$4.90
1.25
3.00
.50
.75
.90
6.00
3.20
7.20
.42
1.80
3.00
$32.92
Health ^^^
Some allowaiuo must of course be made for the maintenance of
health. This exi)enditure iueludes i)h.ysieian, dentist, oculist, glasses,
and drugs, both prescriptions and pre})ared remedies.
No definite number of visits to the doctor can be assumed as nec-
essary, but aside from the occurrence of major illnesses, colds and
the various diseases of childhood will doubtless make a doctor's
services necessary at some time during the year. Not only will this
item have to provide for prescri])tions, but also for the various
family remedies.
At least one visit to the dentist during the year for three members
of the family will be necessary, and rarely does one visit })rove
sufficient.
In the absence of any known quantitative measurement, it has
been felt that the most accurate figure will be the average amount
spent by families of Government em])loyees.
A special investigation of the exi)enditures of 04 families during
the year ending July ol, l!)ll>, shows the average expenditure for
doctor, dentist, oculist, and other items necessary for the niainte
nance of health to have been f90.37. The year covered by these ex-
j)enditures, however, included the "fin" ej)idemic of last autumn and
winter, which undoubtedly added to the average expense of medical
attention and medicine. For this reason it has seemed reasonable to
fix the health allowance in this budget at $80.
27
Insurance: (a) Life, $5,000 ordinary policy, yearly premium $110
It is a <;en('i-ally at-repted fact that the male head of a family
sliould can-v iiisiivaiue on his life to protect his wife and children
in the event of his death. In order to do this it is necessary that the
yearly income be sufficient to meet the yearly insurance premiums.
The only question would seem to be as to the amount of insurance
which should be carried. It would seem that a fo.OOO policy would
be the minimum for protection and safety. In the event of the
husband's death this would assure an income to the wife and chil-
dren of not over ^300 per year, or |6 per week. * * *
Insurance : (b) Furniture ^l-^^
Furniture insurance is a cheap form of insurance which it is
highly important that every family should carry, as the loss of
household equipment is an extremely serious matter to a family of
low income. Inquiry made of the Underwriters' Association of the
District of Columbia shows that the annual premium on f 100 worth
of furniture (in a brick. house) is 15 cents per year when paid for
a period of five years.
Insurance on ."^1,000 worth of furniture, which would be about the
average value of furniture of the type of family had in mind in this
study, would be $1.50.
Car fare, 900 rides ?45
There are numy Government employees in Washington who live
so near their offices that car fare is an expense that need rarely
be incurred. On tlie other hand, the large area covered by the city
and its suburbs makes it absolutely necessary for a considerable
portion of the employees to ride to and from their work, and for
another portion to ride at least a part of the time. In view of this,
it seems reasonable to allow the husband two car rides ])er day for
each working day, or 600 rides in total.
Approximately three trips jier week on the street car have been
allowed for the wife and children. Local open markets within easy
walking distance are available to conifiaratively few families in
Washington, and many who walk one way must take a car home after
the market basket has been filled. In addition to this, the mother
of three children will need to make occasional trips to the stores in
the central part of the city to purchase clothing for the family, and
it will be necessarv usuallv for her to take with her the 2 and 5-
year-old children, involving two car fares. It is assumed that the
children will be able to walk to and from school.
Comi>utation of the cost of street car fare has been made on the
28
basis of tlio n-cont fare, as no iclialilc data exists as to the use of
transfeis, for which a rharjje of 2 cents is made in Washington.
Amusements and recreation $20
The inijiortance of ici rcatioii as a factor in healtliy living need
not, of course, he eiuj)hasized. It is accepted as an everyday fact.
The only (piestion is as to the character and cost of such recreation.
Much wholesome amusement arises naturally within the circle of a
family and its friends and costs nothing. On the other hand, the
comi»lexity of modern city life places a money price on many simple
and desirable forms of amusements. Thus a picnic for a family, or
a visit to the park, involves a considerable item of car fare, while a
trip on the river will cost a dollar or more. Moreover, occasional
visits to the moving jtictures are to be exjiected of at least some
members of a family. Thus, even though the more expensive forms
of amusement and recreation, such as summer vacations, are elinii-
nated, some expenditures for this item are absolutely necessary if a
family is not to lead a completely isolated life.
It is impossible, however, to establish quantity standards for
amusements and recreations. The most reasonable method would,
therefore, seem to be to use as a guide the average amount expended
by families of Government employees. A special investigation of
exi)enditures of (>4 families of (lovernment employees in Washington
shows that their average exj)enditure for amusements and recreation
during the year ending July 31, 1919, amounted approximately to
f20. On the average these families had exi)ended a similar amount
on vacations, but no allowance for vacation has been made on this
budget.
Newspapers 1 daily newspaper, $8.40
A newspaper, daily and Sunday issues, is i)laced in the budget
because it is desirable that every citizen should read a daily paper.
In addition, the modern newspaper offers a variety of literary an«l
educational features at a minimum expense.
No allowance is made for magazines or books, not because the
reading thereof is not desirable, but because a family, forced to
careful economy, may avail itself of the ])ublic libraries for all forms
of literature.
The yearly subscrijttion rates of the Washington newspapers vary
slightly, with fS.40 as the minimum. It is felt that the maximum
should be allowed in order to permit the reader his choice of news-
I)apers.
Organizations, such as the church and labor unions, play such an
29
important part in the life of the avei'age worker and his family
that some expenditure on this account must be rejjarded as essential
to normal living. In the present budget expenditures for this [)ur-
pose are accepted as necessary for the majority of families only in
the case of the church and labor organizations; membership in other
organizations, such as the Red Cross Society, the Young Men's
Christian Association, and social clubs may be very desirable, but
cannot be regarded as necessary for a family with low income.
(a) Church and other religious organizations $13
Membership in, or regular attendance at a church almost compels
contributions in one form or another. Not to be able to contribute
usually makes the individual feel so "uncomfortable" that he feels
unwilling to attend church or to send hs children to Sunday school.
Just what the minimum desirable contribution should be is difficult
to determine. In any case, a family contribution of 2o cents a week
would seem to be a bare minimum.
(b) Labor organizations $10
Membership in a labor organization always involves contributions
to its support in the form of dues. The amount of these dues varies
according to the organization. The craft unions to which many
employees in the navy yard and other mechanical divisions belong
have as a rule considerably higher dues than the clerical workers'
organizations. In the absence of other data, it would seem that the
most reasonable method of arriving at a minimum allowance for this
purpose would be to use as a guide the average amount actually
paid for labor organization dues by Government employees. An
investigation on this point showed the average expenditure on labor
organizations by 64 families of Government employees in Washing-
ton during the past year to have been flO.OS.
Incidentals «52
In addition to the expenditures listed above there are a large
number of other items, mostly small or occasional, which cannot be
entirely avoided by a family — such, for instance, as moving ex-
penses, burial exjienses, stationery and postage, telephoning or tele-
graphing at times, patriotic contributions, and charity. Also a fcAV
minor comforts — such, perhaps, as tobacco — are almost in the cate-
gory of necessities for certain people. No minimum quantities for
these items can possibly be specified. The only solution is to grant
a modest sum of money as a ma-ximum to cover expenditures for all
incidentals.
The amount gi-anted by this budget is ?1 per week.
30
U
COST OF THE WASHINGTON, D. C, BUDGET IN VARIOUS
BITUMINOUS COAL MINING COMMUNITIES
At tlic r(<iuist of thr Hit uininoiis Coal Coininission, the United
States Jinrcaii of Labor Statistics in the early part of 1920 made a
special stndji of prices in a ntnidxr of J)itiiiiiinoiis coal mining toirns
in order to del<iiiiine the cost of the budget prerioiislij prepared by
the Bureau for a dorernment employee's family in Washington
when applied to the comlitions in coal mining towns. In doing so,
it Has assumed that the same general standards should apply to the
miner's family as to the Government employee's family, hut modi-
fications u'crc made to jneet peculiar conditions, such as climate,
the need of the mine n'orker for special work clothes, etc. Part of
the material obtained in this inrestigation was arailcd of by Pro-
fessor Ogburn in jtrcparing his budget for bituminous mine worke^rs.
The full report of the study is very volu)ninous and necessarily
involves much repetition,, as each town is treated separately. For
this reason and also because the general results are not very different
from those arrived at by Professor Ogburn, only the summary of the
reports is reproduced below.
The investij>;a1ions of tlio Bureau of Labor Statistics iuto the cost
(»f livinjf in hituniinous coal mining communities have been centered
about eight coal-producing towns. These towns were Unionto.wn,
Pa. ; Barncsboro, Pa. ; Carnegie, Pa. ; Clarksburg, W. Va. ; Nelson-
ville, Ohio; <'linton. Tnd.: Pana, 111., and Belleville, 111.
Roughly divided, tlicsc eight communities fall into two main
regions — the Eastern or Pennsylvania coal field, represented by
Uuiontown. Barnesboro, Carnegie, and Clarksburg, and the Western
or Central < ual tield, lepresented by Nelsonville, Clinton, Pana, and
Belleville.
In order lo secure data on tlie cost of living in these coal mining
towns, two or thrw agents of the Bureau of Labor Statistics were
sent to each town during the months of January and February,
11)20. On a<count of the limited time for making the investigation,
the agents could spend only a few days in each town, but in this
time as comj>lete data as i)ossible were secured on the cost of all
the major items in the budget of the coal miner's family. Prac-
tically every coalmining community included in the survey was
made up of small mining towns, in some of which living conditi(ms
were found to b«' (piite separate and distinct from the main town.
These points could not be covered in detail in a brief survev. An
31
attempt was made, therefore, to secure as nearly as possible a com-
j)Osite of each community, and to present the material in such form
that the general condition foi' the districts as a whole may be
shown.
From the data secured by agents in the field, the ap{»roximate
cost of a health and decency budget for the family of a coal miner
has been worked out. As in j)revious studies, the family for wlii<ii
the budget has been prej)ared consists of five persons — husband,
wife, and three children, boy aged 11. girl 5. and boy 2. or 'AM~>
e<iuivalent adult males.
The tentative quantity budget prepared by the Bureau of Labor
►Statistics in August, 1919, as necessary to maintain a family of
five in Washington, D. C, at a level of health and decency, has been
taken as the quantity basis for the budget of the miner, with such
changes and adjustments as were necessary to make the budget
applicable to the family of a miner living in small coal towns. The
cost of the quantity budget thus determined for miners has been
computed on actual prices secured by agents of the Bureau of Labor
Statistics in the coal communities.
Considerable information has been secured locally on the habits
and customs of miners' families, and the budget has been made to
conform to such of these as were felt to be consistent with health
and decency.
The following is a summary of the major items oi expense in itie
eight coal towns included in the survev :
Pennsylvania Coal Field.
Union town,
Pa.
Barnesboro,
Pa.
Carnegie,
Pa.
Clarksburg,
W. Va.
Food
$788.18
454.30
90.00
26.00
556.52
$803.50
480.73
96.00
57.80
556.52
$793.56
494.53
120.00
41.00
556.52
$826.91
461.38
Clothing
Rent
180 00
F\iel and light
35 00
Miscellaneous
556.52
Additional amount for rent'....
$1,915.00
150.00
$1.994 55
144.00
$2,005.61
120.00
$2,059.81
60.00
Total
$2,065.00
$2,138.55
$2,12561
$2.119 81
32
Central Coal Field.
Nelsonville,
Ohio.
Clinton,
Ind.
Pana,
IlL
Belleville,
lU.
Food
$825.12
500.01
180.00
41.00
556.52
$758.75
503.23
180.00
53.00
556.52
$727.84
469.43
180.00
50.60
556.52
$715.87
Clothing
475.21
Rent
180.00
Fuel and light
57.80
Misopllaneous
556.52
Additional amount for rent'....
$2,102.65
60.00
$2,051.50
60.00
$1,984.39
60.00
$1,985.40
60.00
Total
$2,162.65
$2,111.50
$2,044.39
$2,045.40
'This is the estimated additional amount necessary to obtain housing of the stand-
ard set by the Washington, D. C, Budget.
33
III
BUDGET FOR BITUMINOUS COAL MINE WOKERS
Prepared by Puofessou Wm. F. Ogburx.
At the request of the United Mine Workers of America, Professor
Wm. F. Oghurn of Colinnhia Universitij drew up and suhmitted to
the Bitiuninotts Coal Commission, in January, 11)20, a quantity and
cost budget specifically for hit umi nous mine workers. The folloic-
ing condensation of the original memorandum has been approved
by Professor Oghurn:
The quantity budget worked out by the United States Bureau of
Labor Statistics in August, 1919, has been priced in certain coal-
mining regions, the theory being that what is a standard of health
and decency for families of Government employees should in its
main outlines also be the standard of health and decency for fami-
lies of mine Avorkers. The prices of the various items may be dif-
ferent in coal-mining centers in 1920 from the prices in Washington
in 1919. There may also be some variation in the standard; the
miners need more food and their clothing requirements are differ-
ent But the main purpose borne in mind was this — to determine a
standard of living in coal-mining communities necessary for health
and decency, based on a determination of this standard by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics for Washington, D. C.
The i)rices used in making out the cost here submitted were
obtained by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. That
Bureau already had in its possession considerable data regarding
prices in certain mining towns, but, in order that the data might
be entirely up to date, the Bureau was requested, through the Secre-
tary of the Commission, to make a supplemental inquiry. The
request was granted, and agents were sent out. In view of the very
short time available, however, the investigation had to be limited to
two districts. One of these was the Uniontown district, south of
Pittsburgh; the other was the community of Pana, 111.
It is, of course, realized that these two localities are not a very
large sample and may not be adequately representative of the coal-
mining districts. In making up the budget, therefore, a slavish
following of averages of the prices obtained has not been adhered to,
but considerable consideration has been given to the question of the
accuracy of the sample.
In judging the adequacy of the data obtained, for instance, it
ife clear that the information relating to house rents secured from
34
the Uni(»nto\vn aud Pana districts would not be entirely satisfac-
tory. This would also be true of street car fare. More representa-
tive data would also be needed in determining })rices paid for coal,
gas. electricity, and certain other items.
The budget estimates, therefore, have not been based solely ui)on
the Tana and Tniontown material. Fortunately, in the tiles of tl*e
Bureau of Labor Statistics there are a good many family schedules
showing i»rices and quantities as of the year 11)18 in a number of
small towns in those districts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has
very kindly put these records at our disposal, and from these data
it was possible to formulate a fair idea of general conditions in such
matters as street car fare, house rents, gas and electricity prices,
which could not have been derived from the information secured in
the two localities only.
The estimate of the standard of living as here submitted has,
therefore, been made i)0ssible —
First, by using a previously determined standard of health and
decency ;
Second, by immediate field investigations in two mining commu-
nities, and.
Third, by using records jueviously collected by the Bureau of
Labor Statistics from a much larger number of centers in the coal
fields.
Summary of Budget.
Following the methods of computation above outlined, the fol-
lowing results are obtained as to the cost of maintaining a miner's
family at a level of health and decency, at prices now prevailing
(i. e.. December, 1919).
Food (when computed on the basis of the husband being engaged in
light work) $768.60
Additional food needed when husband is engaged at heavy work 32.78
Clothing:
Husband $146.81
Wife 130.92
Boy, 11 years 77.40
Girl, 5 years 66.13
Boy, 2 years 34.00
455.26
Rent 216.00
Fuel and light 70.00
Miscellaneous 576.30
$2,118.94
Saving on garden, chickens, etc 15.00
$2,103.94
Explosives, smithing, etc 40.00
Total .$2,143.94
35
Itemized Details of Budget.
For a family of five in two bituminous mining towns (Pana, 111.,
and rnionto\STi, Pa.).
I. FOOD.
Item.
Meat
Fish
Dairy products
Lard
Eggs
Cereals
Starch group
Sugar group
Fruits, fresh
Fruits, dried
Fruits, canned
Vegetables, fresh
Vegetables, dried
Vegetables, canned
Vegetable oil
Miscellaneous vegetable food
Mixed fats
Miscellaneous items
Ice
Total
Cost per Item.
Annual.
Weekly.
$134.86
$2.59
22.29
.43
155.38
2.99
12.48
.24
46.97
.90
130.50
2.52
.89
.02
44.88
.86
42.33
.81
8.89
.17
4.32
.08
87.31
1.68
6.35
.12
5.85
.11
8.68
.17
5.86
.11
9.84
.19
28.92
.56
12.00
.23
$768.60
$14.78
II. CLOTHING.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Husband.
Hat, felt
Hat, straw
Suit, winter wool. .
Suit, summer wool.
Overcoat
Raincoat
Shirts, cotton
Union suit, summer.
Union suit, winter..
Pajamas
Socks, cotton
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
1
$4.00
%
$2.00
2.75
1
2.75
40.00
%
20.00
35.00
%
8.75
12.25
Ve
2.04
1.75
5 work
8.75'
2.00
1 dress
2.00,
1.75
3
5.25
3.75
2
7.50
1.50
1 1
1.50
.50
1 8
4.00
36
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Socks, wool
Shoes :
High, work
Low, dress
Shoe repairing:
Half soles and heels.
Rubbers
Gloves, leather work ....
Collars
Ties
Handkerchiefs
Garters
Belt
Suspenders
Umbrella (cotton)
Cleaning and pressing....
Miscellaneous
Special :
Work trousers
Overalls
Jumper
Miner's cap
Articles
Sweater
Total.
$0.75
5.00
5.25
2.00
1.25
1.25
.25
.75
.20
.35
.75
.75
1.75
1.25
3.00
2.50
2.75
.50
1.75
8.50
4
4
1/2
1/2
3
6
2
8
2
1
2
Vz
Vs
3
4
2
2
1
1
$3.00
20.00
2.63
4.00
.63
3.75
1.50
1.50
1.60
.70
.38
.75
.58
2.50
3.00
9.00
10.00
5.50
1.00
1.75
8.50
$146.81
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Wife.
(Summer Clothing)
Hat
Wash Skirt
Waist (cotton) made at home
Waist, dress
Dresses (cotton, thin) made at home
Underwear (union suits)
Petticoat, muslin
Shoes, low
Gloves, cotton
(Winter Clothing)
Hat
Suit
Dress, wool serge
Coat, wool
$7.25
1
3.00
1/2
1.75
3
5.25
V2
2.70
2
1.13
3
1.50
1
5.50
1
.75
1
8.75
1/2
37.50
V2
25.00
1/2
37.50
1/3
$7.25
1.50
5.25
2.63
5.40
3.39
1.50
5.50
.75
4.38
18.75
12.50
12.50
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Petticoat, dark cotton
Underwear (union suit, heavy cotton)
Shoes, high
Gloves, kid
(Year-Round Clothing)
House dresses
Apron, kitchen
Corset (standard make)
Corset covers
Brassiers
Nightdresses
Kimona
Stockings, cotton
Shoe repairing:
New heels
Half soles and heels.
Handkerchiefs
Umbrella
Rubbers or artics....
Cleaning and pressing.
Miscellaneous
Total.
2.75
.60
2.75
.75
.50
2.00
2.00
.40
.35
1.25
.20
2.00
1.25
1.50
2
1
1
3
2
2
3
1
%
5.50
.60
2.75
2.25
1.00
4.00
1.00
3.20
1.05
1.25
1.60
.67
1.25
1.50
8.00
$130.92
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Boy — 11 years of age.
Caps or hats
Suit, wool
Pants, separate (part wool)
Pants, separate, summer
Overcoat
Overalls
Shirts or blouses, cotton
Summer underwear or union suit.
Winter underwear or union suit.
Pajamas
Stockings
Shoes:
High
Low
Shoe Repairing:
Half soles and heels
$0.90
10.50
2.50
1.75
13.50
1.50
.90
1.25
1.50
1.25
.50
3.50
2.50
1.50
Replace-
ment per
year.
2
1
1
2
1
1
5
3
2
2
12
3
2
Yearly cost.
$1.80
10.50
2.50
3.50
6.75
1.50
4.50
3.75
3.00
2.50
6.00
10.50
5.00
7.50
38
II. CLOTHING -Continued.
Article of clothing.
!
Unit price.
1
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Rubbers
1
11.00
.75
.25
.50
.10
.25
.50
1
2
3
2
6
2
$1.00
150
Gloves or mittens
Collars
75
Ties
1 00
Handkerchiefs
60
Garters
50
Belt
25
Miscellaneous
1 00
Sweater
3.00
V2
1 50
Total
$77.40
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Girl — 5 years of age.
Hat, summer
Cap, stockings
Dresses, cotton
Dresses, wool
Hat, winter ,
Apron ,
Coat
Sweater
Cotton petticoats:
Muslin ,
Outing flannel
Summer underwear:
Union suits ,
Underwaists ,
Winter underwear:
Union suits ,
Night dresses:
Muslin
Outing flannel
Stockings, cotton
Shoes :
High
Low
Rubbers .
Mittens
Handkerchiefs
Garters
Miscellaneous
$4.00
.90
1.30
3.50
4.00
.60
11.25
4.00
1.00
.90
.90
.50
1.25
.90
.90
.40
3.50
3.00
.75
.50
.10
.20
Total.
¥2
%
L
1/2
1/2
2
1
4
4
1
1
12
3
3
1
1
6
2
$4.00
.90
7.80
1.75
1.60
.60
5.63
2.00
2.00
.90
3.60
2.00
2.50
.90
.90
4.80
10.50
9.00
.75
.50
.60
.40
2.50
$66.13
39
II. CLOTHING— Continued.
Article of clothing.
Unit price.
Replace-
ment per
year.
Yearly cost.
Boy — 2 years of age.
Hats or Caps:
Hat, duck
Cap
Dresses, cotton (suits, overalls, rompers) ,
Overcoat
Sweater
Summer Underwear:
Undershirts ,
Drawers, muslin
Underwaists
Winter Underwear:
Undershirts
Drawers
Night Dresses:
Muslin
Outing fiannel
Stockings and socks, cotton
Shoes:
High
Low (sandals)
Mittens
Garters
Miscellaneous
$0.65
.75
.70
6.00
3.00
.50
.50
.50
.75
.75
.75
1.00
.35
2.25
1.50
.35
.20
Total.
1
1
8
%
%
3
3
4
2
2
1
1
10
2
2
1
2
$0.65
.75
5.60
3.00
1.50
1.50
1.50
2.00
1.50
1.50
.75
1.00
3.50
4.50
3.00
.35
.40
1.00
$34.00
III. HOUSING.
Rent
P^iel and light
Total...
$216.00
70.00
$286.00
IV. EXPLOSIVES, TOOLS AND SMITHING.
Cost of explosives, per year
Mine lamp (maintenance per year)
Smith charges, per year
Total
$120.00
10.00
10.00
$140.00
40
V. MISCELLANEOUS.
Upkeep of house, furniture ahd furnishings
Laundry work and assistance in domestic service
Cleaning, supplies and services
Health
Insurance:
(a) Life (disability)
(b) Furniture
Carfare
Amusements and recreation
Newspapers, magazines and books
Organizations:
(a) Church
(b) Fraternal
(c) Labor
Incidentals
Total
$70.00
100.00
33.00
80.00
138.80
1..50
15.00
20.00
13.00
13.00
10.00
30.00
52.00
$576.30
41
REMARKS ON THE ITEMS OF THE BUDGET.
I. Food.
Food requirements have been the most carefully and accurately
studied of any of the needs of man, and since food constitutes the
largest single item in the budget, it is of great importance to get
The food estimates as accurate as j)0ssible.
The most common unit for the measurement of food is the calorie,
which is a unit of energy. Food is energy to the human machine
just as coal is energy in the furnace. A man of average age, weight
and stature, at moderate muscular labor, is supposed to need ap-
proximately 3,500 calories a day. If 3,500 calories a day are pur-
chased, probably 10 per cent will be wasted before eaten, and per-
' haps a small percentage as actually consumed will not be utilized
by the system, so that out of the 3,500 calories as bought probably
only 3,100 will actually be used by the body.
The food needs of the family are estimated in like proportion, a
woman consuming 0.0 as much as a man, a boy of eleven 0.9, a girl
of five 0.4, and a boy of two 0.15. The food budget used in the Wash-
ington study for a Government clerk's family is calculated to pro-
duce 3,500 calories per man per day for a family of this size. This
is hardly adequate for a miner, as his work involves the expenditure
of more energA', doubtless, than the man engaged in average muscular
activity.
There seem to be no records available as to the calorie needs of
coal miners. Records made in the training camps of the Uniteil
States })rior to transportation overseas show that the men consumed,
in the summer, about 3,700 calories and in the winter 3,900. Men
working in logging camps, at felling trees in the cold and in the
open, consume as high as (5,000 calories. It is apparently quite
conservative to add 500 calories per day to the food requirements of
a clerk in Washington, as exemplified in the accompanying dietary,
to arrive at the food requirements of a miner. This would mean
4,000 calories in the food purchased for the miner, which would have
to be reduced somewhat, on account of waste, to arrive at the actual
amount consumed, it being remembered, of course, that the miner
will not work, on an average, six whole days a Aveek.
The food budget presented here is an average dietary made up
from different sections of the country and is, therefore, not peculiar
42
1o any one disliicl <»r locality. It stHMiis to be ill a good many ways
a desirable standard to |»ri<e in niininium quantities. Perhaps a
sinjjle niininfi eoniniunity may have ])etuliaiities of diet, but if the
diets ill all t.f liie miniiij; communities of the United States could
be collected, very proliably they would average out in very nearly
the proportions found in the accomjianying dietary, which is really
an average of dietaries fi-om various parts of the country. There
may be in the dietary certain arti*-les, such as watermelon or sour-
Uraiit. which may n<»t be used in a particular group of miners'
families, but it is thought that the amount of these special types
of food allotted in this dietary is so small that it does not invalidate
its applicability. In other words, the great bulk of the dietary is
made up of stai)les used i)robably in all communities.
It should be remembered that this food budget is a standard of
what is desirable. It is really almost imi)erative, for the best
health, in families where there are children, that 12 ounces of milk
should be consumed per nuin per day. It may be true in some of
the mining communities they do not consume as much milk as this,
but in a case of this sort the standard dietary should not be bound
to the standards of local consumption, for nearly all food exjierts
insist upon the desirability of milk as an article of diet.
The prices of the quantities of food here listed were obtained
from stores in the localities visited by the agents during the latter
part of January, 1920. Prices were secured from four or five stores
in each town and averaged. No single quotation was used. The
prices are, therefore, actual j)rices. In some cases the prices deter-
mined at this time of the year may not be strictly accurate, but it
is thought that the error is not very large for the year as a whole.
In some cases, as it was impossible to i)rice a particular article in
the community, the i)rices furnished by the P>ureau of Labor Statis-
tics from other places were used.
I r. Clothing.
There are certain measurements in food studies that make object-
ive tests of adequacy more accurate than in clothing. The standard
of clothing for health and decency, as worked out in the study of
the United States Uureau of Labor Statistics j)reviously referred to,
was the result of jiainstaking study and a considerable amount of
investigation. In estimating the standard of clothing, the Bureau
of Labor Statistics made use of its tabulations of clothing purchases
43
by a very large number of families in a great many cities, scattered
widely over the country.
It is presumed that the wife does a considerable amount of ?ewing
for the children, and the prices of a great many of the children's
clothes are based upon the cost of material alone. The purpo.se in
making this study was to set certain standards, particularly of de-
cency, and this was arrived at after a great amount of observation
and consultation.
The quantities listed in the budget are for annual replacements,
and it has been assumed that the amounts listed will be supple-
mented by the "hold-over"' of similar garments from the previous
year. In the case of a garment which mav reasonably be expected
to last over a period longer than one year, the annual amount has
been expressed in a fraction, i. e., a coat to be worn two years is
1/2, 'i years, %. etc.
This standard budget of clothing was priced at several stores in
each community visited, and the prices are therefore actual prices
of goods and clothing available for purchase in these particular
localities.
The quantities of clothing required were varied slightly for miners
as contrasted with residents of Washington, D. C, due to the pecu- (j
liar needs of miners. The miner weai*s more overalls and is con-
siderably harder on shoes. He is a great deal in the damp and his
clothes come in contact with the floor and sides of the mine, so that
he has certain special requirements.
In some few cases the types of woolen goods priced in the stores
seem to be considerably less in price than such articles would cost
in Washington, and very probably there may be some difference in
quality, but this is rather diificult to measure. It seems nearly
impossible, therefore, to keep the present clothing standard identical
with that of the Washington study, but it is not believed that the
variation is very great.
III. Housing, Fuel and Light.
The minimum housing standard for a family of five has been taken
as one of four rooms, bath, inside toilet and running water. Com-
munities are observed to vary in the types of houses rented. 8ome
communities will have practically no four-room houses and all five-
room ; others may have no five-room houses and all four or six-
room houses, so that it seems slightly arbitrary to set the number
of rooms too rigidly in a standard.
Houses also vary a good deal in rent, according to whether thev
44
are new or old liouscs. They diU'er also jKtoidiii<; to the size of the
roniniunity. A biKlgct, to be most adequately api)licable, therefore,
should have the item of rent somewhat variable. In other words,
when the budget is applied to one town, the rent may be fixed at a
certain figure, and when ap|)lied to another locality the item of rent
may be determined at a different figure. In some of the suburbs
of IMttsbuigh the rent is (piite high, running up to $25 or $35 a
month, whereas the rent for some company houses in very small
mining communities might drop as low as fl2. Judging from the
rent schedule collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in a large
number of towns, very probably a four or five-room house, with run-
ning water, bath and toilet would cost from |18 to $20, roughly
averaged, although jierhaps a newcomer in the town might not be
able to get such a house for less than $25.
In some very small mining towns, where the company owns the
houses, it is possible to get a four-room house for a figure as low as
$7 or $8 a month, but this house will not meet the standard require-
ments of health and decency, being without bath, inside toilet or
running water. In other communities it is possible to rent a fairly
substantially built house of five rooms for $12, but such a house may
be without running water, and thus would not come up to the stand-
ard. If the house with five rooms is modern and has certain other
features of modern equipment, such as gas and electricity, the rent
will very likely be around $25 or $30, so that a figure of $18 a month
for rent for the standard type house compatible with health and
decencv is fairlv conservative.
Fuel.
Miners' families usually burn about 12 or 13 tons of coal a year,
somewhat more in this regard than perhaps the average family.
This may be due in part to the fact that the coal is purchased more
cheaply, in part to the fact that much cooking is done with coal,
and perhaps in part to the fact that the houses are exposed on all
sides. Also the use of grates and single stoves causes a greater
waste of heat than does a furnace.
The coal is usually purchased by miners, with the exception of
certain communities, at somewhat cheaper prices than others have
to pay. It is difficult to set exact figures, owing to the fact that the
price depends upon local practices. Some mining companies, in-
deed, have furnished coal free, charging only for the cost of hauling.
Coal will also vary in price according to gi-ade. But it is thought
45
that an cvstiuiate of |4 per ion is a fair average figure, taking into
consideration these variable elements.
Fuel used for cooking also varies quite widely. A great many
.families cook with coal and some with gas, whether natural or manu-
factured, and some families use a little of both. If gas is used for
cooking alone, i)erhaps 2.5,000 or 30,000 cubic feet is the average
amount used. This varies in pri<e from 75 cents to |;1.50 per
thousand.
Lighting by a great many families in mining lowns is furnished by
kerosene. Families using this will probably consume 50 gallons a
year, or more, which sells now around 20 cents a gallon. In case
electricity be used for lighting, perhaps 200 kilowatt hours may be
consumed. ' Monthly minimums are often set by the companies,
varying from |1 to fl.oO.
The type of fuel used for cooking and lighting is determined, to
a certain extent, by the kind of house occupied. If the house be a
sanitary one, with modern equipment, very likely gas and electricity
are found. If gas be used for cooking, perhaps not quite so much
coal will be consumed.
It is very difficult to set a single figure for lighting and heating
where customs and habits are so varied and where the climatic con-
ditions also fluctuate. However, it is thought, judging from the
family expenditures observed, that |70 for fuel and light, including
matches, kindling, etc., would be a fair figure.
IV. Explosives, Tools and Smithing.
A large number of the miners are required to pay oiit of their
wages a certain sum for explosives, equipment and maintenance of
tools. In some instances the company pays for the explosives, so a
budget to be adapted to a particular community would have to be
varied in this item for the cost of explosives and supplies. But
because of the fact that such a large number of miners must pay
for these, the items of $120 for explosives, flO for the mine lamps
and sui)i)lies and $10 for tools' and smithing, being a total of |140,
is listed.
46
\'. Miscellaneous.
Upkeep o/ House, Furniture and Furnishings.
The following data does not allow for the initial furnishing of
a house with the more durable articles of furniture. However, the
upkeep of hous(< furnishings, such as bedding, towels, kitchen and
table ware, and also the rejdacement of worn-out furniture, is a
necessary recurring exi)enditure. The amount allowed in the stand-
ard budget by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is f70, and is the
estimate used for this study. It is thought that furniture costs in
mining towns are not exceptional.
Assistance in Domestic Service.
In the standard of health and decency worked out for Washington,
I). C, provision is made for some assistance to the housewife. If
the housewife has three dejjendent children, does the cooking for
the family and does some of the laundry work and the bulk of sewing
for the children, it is very probable that she w'ill need some assist-
ance in all of this work. Some mothers may get assistance in the
laundry work, others may have a seamstress come in, and in various
ways jtersonal service of this nature is required. It would seem
that $100 a year for such assistance would probably conform to
standards of health and decency.
Cleaning Supplies and Service.
The item for certain cleaning supplies and service is listed at
$33, and is, in detail, the same as that adopted in the Washington^
D. C, budget.
Maintenance of Health.
The item for the maintenance of health is put down as |80. Some
years ago it was estimated for the country as a whole at |!(;0, which
included doctors' fees, hospital services, medicines, dentists' fees
and oculists' fees, eyeglasses, etc. These prices have gone up some-
what, and the figure of $80 is probably conservative. There is cer-
tainly no reason to believe that the health conditions in mining
towns and of the miners' work are better than in other communities
and in other lines of work.
47
Insurance.
In the standard of health and decency it is estimated that the head
of the family should carry an ordinary life ])olicy of .fr),000. It is
a fact that a fjroat many workiiij;- men cary only industrial insur-
ance, but it would certainly seem that it is not asking too much that
a man at death should leave a $5,000 policy as a minimum of i)ro-
tection and safety, even though in special cases of death by accident
there may be special compensation.
A good many insurance companies will not write an ordinary life
insurance policy for miners; others will only write them endowment
[folicies. There are some comi)anies, however, that do write ordinary
life insurance for miners. The comi)anies which have the cheapest
rate for miners, as contrasted with other risks, charge at least 10
per cent more for miners than for the ordinary workman. The best
price quoted by one company of excellent standing was |27.76 per
thousand for miners, which amounts to |13S.80 per year for a $5,000
policy. The rate of this company has been raised since last summer.
The item for the insurance of furniture, which seems desirable,
is set down at f 1.50.
Carfare.
The amount allowed for carfare varies from locality to locality.
In a great many mining communities a very large percentage of the
miners do not i)ay carfare to their work and back. In some towns,
however, there is some use of the street cars in going to and from
work. In the small towns where there are no street cars, sometimes
the item of car rides consists in visits to nearby towns for shopping
or pleasure purposes, and in such cases an item is sometimes }nit
down for the wife and children. It is assumed that in practically
all cases the children walk to and from school.
The most satisfactory way of estimating the items of carfare
would be to vary it according to the community to which the budget
is applied, but if a single item is desired, as an average, probably
$15 should ])roperly be placed.
Amusements and Recreation.
In earlier budgets the necessity for amusements and recreation
wa^ not appreciated. The rise of modern psychology, however, has
demonstrated their necessity. An item of $20 for amusement and
recreation, which included theatres, movies, pool, dances, etc., seems
very modest, indeed, and is the figure used in the budget of the
Bureau of Labor Statistics.
48
Xetcspapcrs, Hooks and Magazines.
A family liviiij,' at a level of deceucy and health should certaiuly
have a newspaixT daily and Sunday. It is, in fact, a necessity of
citizenship. Inhabitants of small towns usually enjoy a paper from
a larfier city, and occasionally a subscription to a local paper. It is
thou},dit that the sum of fO.UO would cover the cost of newspapers in
the average community.
Only |t4.00 a year is allowed for books and magazines. Very many
of the mining towns have no public libraries, and there the inhab-
itants, if they care to read, are forced to buy more of their literature
than is necessary in larger cities.
Organizations.
Recoi'ds of family budgets indicate that flO or |15 a year are spent
on religious organizations. In this budget |13.00 has been allowed
for such expenditures.
Ten dollars a year is allowed for fraternal organizations, and
|<30.00 for labor unions. The trade-unions' dues are a little difficult
to estimate, as there are a number of organizations to which the
members contribute, and there are also occasional assessments. The
rate also varies somewhat according to earnings, but it is estimated
that 130.00 will take care of the total annual contributions.
Incidentals.
There are also a number of additional expenditures, such as mov-
ing expenses, burial expenses, stationery and postage, occasional
telephone and telegraph tolls, jjatriotic contributions and charity. A
great many also use tobacco. The total of these probably amounts to
|1.00 per week on the average.
Variations in Family Budgets.
There always exist some families Avho can, by unusual thrift, luck
or skill in purchasing, make some savings over a standard set for the
ordinary household. It would seem, however, that a budget should
not be set for such exceptional individuals. There will, of course,
always be variations also in jtrices, so that by watching sales and
taking advantage of exceptional opportunities there may be some
saving made here and there.
It is quite possible that the families who having a garden and
raise chickens do make some saving on food costs. This saving, as
judged by a number of family budgets that have been collected, is
49
estimated at $15.00. Very probably the other savitijis would not
amount to more than 5 ]»er cent or 10 i)ei' cent. This budget is built
rather for the normal lamily and is tij^nred very dosel}' as a mini-
mum estimate of health and decency. The prices are really miui-
mum prices for these qualities.
It should be remend)ered that such a budjijet is by no uieans an
ideal one. There are no provisions for savings, other than insurance,
none for vacation, and the miscellaneous expenditures are exceed-
ingly modest.
50
IV
WORKINGMEN'S STANDARD OF LIVING IN PHILADELPHIA
Stidy Madk i:v Tin: Piiiladeli'hia Bureau of Municipal Research,
The iiill report inis reeenthj piihli.s-hed hi/ Mdcniillan Company,
Kew York, under (Ik title: Workiiu/ineii's ^itundard of Living in
Pliiladelphid. A rep-.rt hy the Bureau of Munieipal Research of
Philadelphia, M'iUiain C. Beyer in charge, Rehekah P. Davis and
Myra Thwing, assistants.
The study had as a principal ohject the deternn nation of the cost
of a standard of health and comfort for tJie employees of the city
government. The foUoicing extracts are from Chapter IV:
General Outline of the Standard.
In general outline the standard of living suggested for the stand-
ard family assumed in this report is as follows:
Classes of Expenditure.
Cost per
Year at
autumn 1918
Prices.
All classes
Specified standard
Housing
Fuel and light
Food
Clothing
Carfare
Cleaning supplies and services
Unspecified standard — 21% of cost of specified standard
$1,636.79
1,352.72
240.00
75.00
660.09
299.43
35.40
42.80
284.07
Division of the Standard into Specified and Unspecified.
In so far as it was possible to do so, the requirements of this stand-
ard are set forth in the following pages in terms of actual goods and
services. Since these requirements, however, could not be expressed
throughout in actual goods and services, the standard has been di-
vided into two sections, the specified section nnd the unspecified sec-
51
tion. Tn the specified section are included all items or classes of tlie
household budget for which the requirements could he set forth in
terms of goods and services, and in the unsperifird section are in-
cluded those classes that could not be set forth in this manner. The
classes included in the specified section are housing, fuel and light,
food, clothing, carfare, and cleaning supplies and services. These
constitute approximately 82 per cent of the entire household budget.
In the unspecified .section are included health ; furniture and furnish-
ings; taxes, dues and contributions; recreation and amusements;
education and reading; insurance; and miscellaneous expenditures,
which together constitute the remaining 18 per cent of the house-
hold budget. * * *
Method op- Arriving at Cost of rxsPKriFiEi) Section.
In arriving at the current cost of the unspecified section, which
could not be expressed in terms of goods and services, a different
method had to be adopted. After considering the problem carefully
from all angles, we came to the conclusion that for all practical pur-
poses it would be sufficiently accurate to reckon the cost of this sec-
tion as a certain percentage of the cost of the specified section. This
percentage should correspond with the normal relationship shown
by investigation to exist between these two parts of the working-
man's household budget. From our own data it would appear that
the unspecified section of the budget is approximately 21 per cent of
the specified .section. This finding is confirmed by the recent investi-
gations made in different parts of the country by the U. S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics. In the present instance the cost of the specified
standard is .1?1,352.72. By adopting the method just described, that
is, by taking 21 per cent of this amount, we find that the cost of
the unspecified standard is .?284:.07. The cost of the standard as a
whole equals the sum of these two amounts, or $l,(;3t).70. » ♦ *
Housing.
Requirements of a Fair S>tandard.
Annua] rent $240.00
Two-story row house, with six rooms, facing street; bathroom, inchjd-
ing toilet, washstand and tub; laundry, furnace, and facilities for gas
cooking and lighting.
52
Fuel and Light.
Requirements of a F'air Standard.
Unit.
Price per
unit.
Annual
quantity.
Annual
cost
Total
$75.00
Pea coal
ton
ton
1000 cu. ft.
box of 500
$8.45
9.90
1.00
.06
2^
2%
26
52
$21.13
Stove coal
24.75
Gas . . . .
26.00
Matches
3.12
In the standard we are suggesting allowances are made for
the three most frequently used and most staple fuel and lighting
supplies, namely, coal, gas, and matches. Electricity, wood,, candles,
kerosene, and charcoal, although all of these were used to a greater
or lesser extent by the families invstigated, have not been considered
indispensable, especially if an adequate quantity of the more staple
supplies is provided. Instead, the allowances of coal, gas, and
matches were made slightly more generous than the average quan-
tity consumed as shown by our data. It is worthy of note, in this
connection, that while five tons of coal is almost a ton more than the
average consumption shown by our data, yet, for a six-room house
it is one ton less than the standard of a ton per room established by
the Fuel Administration. The quality' of coal selected conforms as
nearly as we were able to judge to the quality generally used by
workingmen's families. * * *
53
Food.
Requirements of a Fair Standard.
Unit.
Price
per unit.
Annual
quantity.
1 1
Annual
cost.
Total
1
$600.09
Broad and cereals
$112.19
Bread
16 oz. loaf
24 oz doz.
lb.
lb.
pkg.
12 lb. bag
12 oz. pkg.
lb.
lb.
$
.08
.15
.23
.05
.08
.75
.12
.07
.13
988
52
13
26
13
13
13
52
39
$ 79.04
Buns and rolls
7.80
Cakes niisc
2.99
Cornmeal
1.30
Cornstarch
1.04
Flour, wheat
9.75
Macaroni
1.56
Oatmeal
3.64
Rice .
5.07
Meats and fish
$165.23
Beef-equal parts of brisket, chuck
and round
lb.
lb.
lb.
lb.
lb.
$
.38
.40
.20
.20
.43
286
26
78
13
; 65
$108.68
Chicken
10.40
Fish, fresh
15.60
Fish, salt
2.60
Pork
27.95
Meat substitutes
$169.00
Beans, dried
ib.
lb.
doz.
qt.
lb.
$
.17
.36
.60
.15
.11
13
26
! 78
1 728
1 13
i
1
$ 2.21
Cheese
9.36
Eggs
46.80
Milk, fresh
109.20
Peas, dried
1.43
Shortening ...
$ 52.00
Butter
lb.
lb.
lb.
$
.70
.32
.36
1 26
32.5
65
$ 18.20
Lard
10.40
Oleomargarine
23.40
Fresh vegetables
$ 66.01
Cabbage
2 lb. head
2 lb. bunch
doz.
4 oz. head
lb.
pk.
$
.05
.05
.20
.03
.02y2
.60
39
39
13
13
91
78
$ 1.95
Carrots
1.95
Corn
2.60
Lettuce
.39
Onions
2.28
Potatoes, Irish
46.80
54
FOOD— Continued.
Unit.
Price
per unit.
Annual
quantity.
Annual
cost.
Fresh vefietables
Potatoes, sweet . .
Spinach
String beans
Tomatoes
(continued)
Pk.
pk.
pk.
pk.
Canned vegetables |
Corn I 19 oz. can
Peas I 19 oz. can
Tomatoes 19 oz. can
Fresh fruits
Apples
Oranges
Peaches
Dried fruits
Prunes
Raisins
Sugars . ,
Molasses . .
Sugar, gran.
Beverages
Cocoa
Coffee
Tea
Miscellaneous
Baking powder .
Ice
Pickles
Salt
pk.
doz.
pk.
lb.
15 oz. pkg.
18 oz can
lb.
$ .60
.40
.40
.48
% .17
.16
.14
% .64
.30
.40
$ .13
.13
$ 14
.1014
8 oz. can
lb.
lb.
$ .15
.21
.48
2% oz. can
25 lb. cake
8 oz. bottle
4 lb. bag
08 I
.10 I
.12 I
.10 i
1
4
4
13
13
13
52
13
19.5
6.5
13
6.5
26
234
13
52
13
13
120
26
13
$ .60
1.60
1.60
6.24
$ 11.57
I 2.21
2.08
7.28
$ 16.77
$ 8.32
5.85
2.60
2.54
1.69
.85
28.21
3.64
24.57
19.11
1.95
10.92
6.24
17.46
1.04
12.00
3.12
1.30
Basis of alloic^iticcs. The food allowance in the above standard is
based i)artly upon the scientific requirements of a workingman's
family' of the size we are assuming and partly upon the actual food
habits of workingmen's families as indicated by the data collected
in our investigation.
The standard family we are assuming and the relative food re-
quirements of its members, as determined from the schedule of the
U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics given on pages 20-21, are as follows:
Husband . .
Wife
Boy, age 13
Girl, age 10
Boy, age 6
1.00 unit
.80 "
.90 "
.60 "
.50 "
55
The entire family, therefore, is equivalent in its food needs to 3.80
adult males.
While authorities differ on the food requirements of the body, the
consensus of scientific opinion seems to be that a man at moderately
active muscular work ought to have from o,0()0 to o,20() calories
daily.* The results of our investigation indicate that the actual
food consumption of workingmen's families conforms very closely to
these requirements. According to the food estimates of all of our
2G0 families, the average quantity of food consumed per man per day
was ?>A~)() calories. An analysis of the food purchases of :U families
as recorded in account-books during the period of our field inquiry
gives us a corresponding figure of 3,025 calories. The four families
whose account-book records showed their food purchases during
1913-14 appear to have had 3,100 calories per man per day. In devis-
ing the above standard, therefore, the food allowance per man per
day has been made 3,150 calories.
It is important also that the food allowance provide a well-bal-
anced diet, and particularly that the quantity of protein be adequate.
Here again food authorities differ, but the more general view appears
to be that a man at moderately active muscular work should have
daily from 100 to 120 grams of protein, from 330 to 500 grams of
carbohydrates, and from 40 to 90 grams of fat. For comparison with
these requirements, the following table shows the actual food habits
of the different groups of families included in our investigation :
I Carbo-
Protein. | hydrates.
(Grams) I (Grams)
1
Fat.
(Grams)
Food estimates —260 families, 1916-18 | 105.9 i 336.4
Account-book records— 31 families, 1917-18 1 100.8 I 415.6
Account -book records— 4 families, 1913-14 i 89.9 I 431.8
92.7
93.7
108.9
The food allowance in the above standard provides 110,8 gi-ams of
protein, 460.4 grams of carbohydrates, and 92.2 grams of fat. * * *
'At the Paris session of the Inter-Allied Scientific Food Commission, March 25-30,
1918, it was agreed to allow 3,000 calories for the "average man," and in addition to
allow 10 per cent for waste, thus bringing the total allowance per man per day up
to 3,300 calories.
56
Clothing.
Rcc/Kircinriil.s of a Fair ^SttDidard.
Price per
article.
Annual
quantity.
Annual
cost.
Total.
Total for husband
Caps, wool and cotton mixture, 30 per cent wool,
lined or unlined
Hats, soft or stiff felt, medium grade
Hats, cheapest straw, stiff brimmed
Sweaters, 60 per cent wool
Overcoats, overcoating, 40 per cent wool
Suits, cheviot or cassimere, 50 per cent wool
Extra trousers, worsted face, cotton back
Overalls, denim
Working shirts, cotton flannel or flannelette
Working shirts, cotton shirting
Dress shirts, printed madras
Collars, stiff or soft washable
Ties, silk and cotton four-in-hand
Suspenders, cotton or lisle elastic web
Belts, cheap leather
Handkerchiefs, cotton
Night shirts (home-made), 5 yds. 36-inch muslin,
thread and buttons
Night shirts (home-made), 5 yds. 36-inch outing
flannel, thread and buttons
Summer underwear, sets, Balbriggan
Winter underwear, sets, 25 per cent wool
Socks, common cotton
Shoes, gun-metal welt
Shoe repairs, half -soled and heeled
Rubbers, storm
Gloves, knitted yarn, 75 per cent wool
Garters, cotton elastic web
Total for wife.
Hats, plain velvet, little trimming
Hats, plain straw, little trimming
Coats, Kersey cloth, pile fabric, cheviot or mix-
tures
Wash dresses (home-made), 6 yds. 36-inch ging-
ham or percale, thread and buttons
Suits, wool poplin, or other material, 50 per cent
wool
Skirts, serge, panama cloth or plaid mixtures
Shirtwaists (home-made), 2% yds. cotton voile or
lawn, thread and buttons
Shirtwaists (home-made), 2^/^ yds. 36-inch wash-
able silk, thread and buttons
Petticoats (home-made), 3% yds. 27 or 36-inch
muslin, cambric or sateen, thread and buttons..
$0.75
1
2.25
V2
1.50
V2
5.00
Vz
16.50
%
16.50
1
4.50
1
1.50
2
1.65
2
1.50
2
1.50
2
.25
6
.65
3
.50
1
.50
1/2
.125
6
1.00
1
1.00
1
1.50
3
2.30
1
.25
12
5.50
2
1.50
2
1.50
1
1.00
1
.50
1
$3.50
V2
1.50
1
15.00
V2
1.75
21/2
16.00
Vz
5.00
1
.75
3
2.50
1/2
1.50
2
$299.43
$77.68
$0.75
1.13
.75
2.50
5.50
16.50
4.50
3.00
3.30
3.00
3.00
1.50
1.95
.50
.25
.75
1.00
1.00
4.50
2.30
3.00
11.00
3.00
1.50
1.00
.50
$65.78
$1.75
1.50
7.50
4.38
8.00
5.00
2.25
1.25
3.00
57
CLOTHING— Continued.
Price per
article.
Annual
quantity.
Annual
cost.
Corsets, standard make
Corset covers, cambric with narrow embroidered
or lace edging
Summer underwear, cotton ribbed union suits
Winter underwear, winter weight cotton union
suits I
Nightgowns (home-made), 4 yds. 36-inch nainsook, |
muslin or outing flannel, thread and buttons '
Handkerchiefs, cotton
Gloves, cotton or chamoisette
Aprons (home-made), 5 yds. .36-inch figured percale
or gingham, thread and buttons
Stockings, plain cotton
Shoes, gun-metal welt
Shoe repairs, half -soled and heeled
Rubbers, storm
Total for boy, age 13.
Caps, wool and cotton mixture, 30 per cent wool,
lined or unlined
Hats, wool and cotton mixture
Sweaters, 60 per cent wool
Overcoats, overcoating, 30 per cent wool
Suits, 60 per cent wool, cassimere, union cheviot
or suiting
Extra trousers, 35 per cent wool, union cheviot . .
Extra trousers, cotton khaki
Blouses (home-made), 2% yds. 36-inch percale or
gingham, thread and buttons
Collars, stiff or soft washable
Ties, silk Windsor
Belts, cheap leather
Handkerchiefs, cotton
Night shirts (home-made), 3% yds. 36-inch mus-
lin, thread and buttons
Night shirts (home-made), 3i4 yds. 36-inch outing
flannel, thread and buttons
Summer underwear, sets, Balbriggan
Winter underwear, sets, winter weight cotton,
fleece-lined
Stockings, cotton ribbed
Shoes, gun-metal welt
Shoe repairs, half -soled and heeled
Rubbers, storm
Gloves, fleece-lined, cotton back
Garters (home-made), 1 yd. cotton elastic web. . .
$2.00
.40
.75
1.50
1.25
.10
.75
1.50
.25
5.00
1.50
1.00
$0.75
1.25
5.00
10.00
8.75
1.50
1.00
.85
.25
.30
.50
.10
.90
.90
.90
1.00
.25
4.50
1.50
1.00
.75
.10
Total for girl, age 10.
Hats, tailored straw
Hats, velveteen or corduroy
Sweaters, worsted face, cotton back.
Coats, cheviot, 50 per cent wool
$1.00
1.25
2.00
7.50
2
3
2
6
1
3
9
2
1
1
1%
V2
11/2
1
2
5
2
2
1
3
2
18
4
4
1
1
2
%
$2.00
.80
2.25
3.00
2.50
.60
.75
4.50
2.25
10.00
1.50
1.00
$69.04
$1.13
.63
2.50
5.00
13.13
1.50
2.00
4.25
.50
.60
.25
.60
.90
.90
2.70
2.00
4.5f
l&M
6.00
1.00
.75
.20
$52.75
$1.00
1.25
2.00
3.75
58
CLOTHING— Continued.
Price per
article.
Wash dresses (homemade), 4% yds. 36-inch ging-
ham or chambray, thread and buttons
Petticoats (homemade), 2 yds. 36-inch muslin and
2% yds. lace or edging, thread and buttons
Petticoats (homemade), 2 yds. 36-inch outing flan
nel, thread and but tons
Drawer waists, muslin
Drawers (homemade), 2 yds. 36-inch muslin, thread
and buttons
Union suits, cotton, fleece-Dned
Nightgowns (homemade), 3 yds. 36-inch muslin and
1% yds. lace or edging, thread
Nightgowns (homemade), 3 yds. 36-inch outing flan-
nel, thread
Handkerchiefs, cotton
Gloves, fleece-lined, cotton back
Stockings, cotton ribbed
Shoes, gun-metal welt
Shoe repairs, half -soled and heeled
Rubbers, storm
Garters (homemade), 1 yd. cotton elastic web. .
Ribbons, 8 yds. 3-inch silk face
Total for boy, age 6.
Caps, wool and cotton mixture, 30 per cent wool
Sweaters, worsted face, cotton back
Overcoats, overcoating or union cheviot, 30 per
cent wool
Wash suits (homemade), 2i^ yds. 36-inch percale
or gingham, thread and buttons
Ties, silk Windsor
Handkerchiefs, cotton
Nightgowns (home-made), 3 yds. 36-inch muslin,
thread and buttons
Nightgowns (home-made), 3 yds. 36-inch outing
flannel, thread and buttons
Drawer waists, muslin
Drawers (home-made), IVs yds. 36-inch muslin,
thread and buttons
Union suits, cotton, fleece-lined
Stockings, cotton ribbed
Shoes, satin calf, machine sewed or nailed
Shoe repairs, half -soled
Rubbers, storm
Gloves, fleece-lined, cotton back
Garters (home-made), 1 yd. cotton elastic web,
$1.25
.90
.50
.40
.40
1.25
.75
.75
.05
.75
.30
4.00
.75
.75
.10
.10
$0.75
2.00
5.00
.75
$0.25
.05
.75
.75
.40
.40
1.25
.25
3.00
.75
.75
.75
.10
Annual
quantity.
2%
2
3
6
2
1
6
1
12
4
2
1
2
8
IVz
1
%
6
1
6
1
3
4
2
18
3
2
1
1
2
Annual
cost.
$10.00
2.25
1.00
1.20
2.40
2.50
.75
.75
.30
.75
3.60
16.00
1.50
.75
.20
.80
$34.18
$1.13
2.00
2.50
4.50
$0.25
.30
.75
.75
1.20
1.60
2.50
4.50
9.00
1.50
.75
.75
.20
The specifications for the various articles of clothing were decided
upon after consultation with clothing buyers and salesmen in a num-
59
ber of Philadelphia's downtown and ontlyinp: stores where working-
men are accustomed to trade. In deciding upon these specifications
it was our endeavor to conform as nearly as possible to existing
standards of quality in workingmen's clothing. ♦ • »
Carfare.
Requirements of a Fair Standard.
Total I $35.40
Carfare of husband to and from work, 604 rides @ $0.05. . . .
Carfare of family for all other purposes, 104 rides @ $0.05.
$30.20
5.20
Cleaning Supplies and Services.
Requirements of a Fair Standard.
Price
Annual
Quan-
tity
Annual
Cost
Total.
Specified requirements.
Personal
Toilet soap, small bars I $0.07
Tooth brushes
35
50
t .25
Tooth paste or powder, tubes or boxes i .10
Combs, plain hard rubber
Hair brushes, wooden back
Shoe polish, boxes I .10
Barber's services: !
Husband, shaves and haircuts I .40
Children, haircuts I .25
Household
lb. bars.
Laundry soap.
Starch, pounds
Bluing, pint bottles
Clothesline, yards
Clothespins, dozens
Stove polish, boxes
Furniture polish, pint bottles
Cleanser, boxes
Collars sent to laundry
Unspecified requirements, 26 per cent of cost of specified
requirements
$0.08
.08
.10
.02y2
.03
.06
.25
.05
.04
70
5
12
1
1
12
10
8
%
120
24
12
5
1
26
2
36
52
$42.80
$33.97
$15.15
$ 4.90
1.25
1.20
.35
.25
1.20
4.00
2.00
$18.82
9.60
1.92
1.20
.13
.03
1.56
.50
1.80
2.08
$ 8.83
60
V
COST OF LIVING AMONG WAGE-EARNERS IN FALL RIVER,
MASSACHUSETTS, OCTOBER, 1919
Stt'dy Made by the National Industrial Conference Board.
The full report was published h}/ the Natio7ial Industrial Confer-
ence Board, Boston, Massachusetts, as Research Report Xumber 22.
The foUoicing is an almost complete extract of the portions of the
report dealing with the quant it}/ budget and its cost in October,
1919:
The followiDg report summarizes the results of a study undertaken
to determine the cost of maintaining a minimum American standard
of living in Fall River, Massachusetts, in October, 1919, and also the
cost of maintaining a somewhat more liberal standard. * * »
For the purpose of this study, the cost of living was estimated with
reference to the needs of a man, his wife and three children under
14 years of age. No attempt was made to secure family budgets from
representative wage-earners. In.stead, the amount of food, clothing,
fuel, heat, light and other items needed to meet the requirements of
a decent standard of living was carefully estimated on the basis of
several budget studies made by other authorities, and prices of these
various items were obtained. Thus, while the final estimate of the
money cost of maintaining a definite standard of living is not based
on actual family expenditures, but rather is a hypothetical budget
designed to maintain a hypothetical family at a specified standard,
it should closely approximate the true conditions. In practice, ex-
penditures for the different items in the budget may and undoubtedly
will vary considerably to meet the needs or tastes of individual fami
lies, but although the sums allowed for the total cost of living may
be distributed in a large variety of ways, the averages given are as
nearly representative as any that can be reached. It should always
be borne in mind, however, that the figures are averages, even though
they include a large variety of data.
The investigation covered a period of one week in October, 1919. A
study was made of available statistical data relating to Fall River,
and various sections or "villages" of the city were visited to obtain
a picture of the home surroundings of the people. The latter were
observed on the street, as purchasers in stores, at work in the mills,
at a dance for women wage-earners, and, in several instances, in their
own homes.
61
Visits were made to the headquarters of Ihe various .social and
community agencies of the city, from which much valuable infoi-ma
tion on the cost and standard of living was secured. To obtain the
cost of the various items entering into the fanuly budget and the
increases in cost over a five-year period, figures were collected from
retail food and clothing stores, coal dealers, and other corporations,
associations and individuals in close touch with the local situation.
Cost of Living in October^ 1919.
Food. — To obtain the average cost of food, several budgets, includ
ing articles suflScient for a week's supply for a family of man, wife
and three children, were used as a basis. From these were con-
structed food budgets designed to meet the requirements of a mini-
mum standard and of one slightly above the minimum. Prices were
collected from four of the large down-town stores, from branches of
two different chain stores, one of them represented by 21 separate
branches, and from various neighborhood grocery stores: one Polish,
one Portuguese and two French. When there was more than one
quality of an article the price used was the lowest consistent with
what appeared to be good value. The quotations collected for each
article were averaged and are given in Tables 1 and 2.
TABLE 1— MINIMUM FOOD BUDGET FOR A WEEK.
Item and amount.
Cost,
October,
1919.
*
Item and amount.
Cost,
October,
1919.
Meat and Fish
2 lbs. flank
$ .32
.40
.21
.20
.27
.61
.66
.18
.41
2.10
.77
.12
.13
.14
.23
.15
Fruit
3 qts. apples
3 oranges
% .27
12
2 lbs. chuck
\'2 lb. bacon
4 bananas
15
1 lb. dried cod
V> lb. raisins
12
1 can salmon
1 lb. prunes
.24
Dairy Products
1 doz. eggs
Hroad, Cereals, etc.
12 lbs. bread
1 28
1 lb. butter
V2 lb. oleomargarine or lard...
2 lbs. flour
1 lb. cornraeal
.16
.07
1 lb. cheese
1 lb. rice
16
14 qts. milk
1 lb. macaroni . . .
16
A'egofables
3 lb. rolled oats
.21
1% pks. potatoes
3 lbs. sugar
.33
3 lbs. carrots
1 pt. molasses
.12
2 lbs. onions
Tea, ("offee, etc.
y± lb. tea
3 lbs. cabbage
15
2 lbs. dried beans
1 can tomatoes
V2 lb. coffee
^/2 lb. cocoa
.23
.22
Condiments
Total weekly cost
.11
$11.00
62
From the food budget itemized in Table 1, which must be regarded
as a minimum, it appears that the least that can be allowed for food
for a man, wife and three childi-en under 14 years of age in Fall River
in October, 1919, is f 11 a week.
TABLE 2— MORE LIBERAL WEEKLY FOOD BUDGET.
I
Item and amount.
Cost,
October,
1919.
Cost,
October,
1919.
i .27
.24
.23
.12
.24
1.28
.16
.07
.16
.14
.15
.08
.33
.12
.15
.23
.22
.17
Moat and Fish
2 lbs. flank
1 lb. Hamburg
3 lbs. leg mutton
^ lb. bacon
1 lb. dried cod
1 can salmon
Dairy Products
1 doz. eggs
1 lb. butter
% lb. oleomargarine or lard . .
1 lb. cheese
14 qts. milk
Vegetables
2 pks. potatoes
2 lbs. carrots
4 lbs. onions
2 lbs. cabbage
2 lbs. dried beans
1 can tomatoes
$ .32
.25
.75
.21
.20
.27
.61
.66
.18
.41
2.10
1.02
.08
.26
.09
.23
.15
Fruit
3 qts. apples
1/^ doz. oranges
V2 doz. bananas
^2 lb. raisins
1 lb. prunes
Bread, Cereals, etc.
12 lbs. bread
lbs. flour
lb. cornmeal . .
lb. macaroni . .
lbs. rolled oats,
pkg. cornflakes
lb. tapioca . .
2
1
1
2
1
V2
3 lbs. sugar
1 pt. molasses . . .
Tea, Coffee, etc.
% lb. tea
^2 lb. coffee
V2 lb. cocoa
Condiments
Total weekly cost $12.15
The more liberal food budget, covering a week's supply for five
persons, worked out in co-operation with the visiting housekeeper of
the League for Community Welfare of Fall River and given in Table
2, was planned so as to include foods in i)articular demand among
wage-earning families. From this it appears that to feed such a
family according to a standard somewhat above the minimum, ^12.15
a week would be re(iuired.
These food budgets have been arranged with due consideration for
food values and variety, although, of course, the tastes of many fami-
lies might require a somewhat different combination of articles.
Nevertheless, it is j)robable that an adequate supply of food for an
average family of five could be purchased in Fall River in October,
1919, for $11 per week, while $12.15 is sufficient to insure a somewhat
more liberal diet. This would mean an annual expenditure for food
63
of $572 for the uiiniinuni standard and $G31.S0 for the more liberal
standard.
Shelter. — For information as to rents, the social agencies of Fall
River, the Real Estate Owners' Association, the Renting Department
of the Chamber of Commerce, individual renting agencies and land-
lords were consulted. A number of rented houses also were visited.
The ordinary tenement in Fall River contains from three to live
rooms with toilet, and the i-ents range from -SI. 2.') to $4 j)er week.
For the larger sum, a bath would be included. There are very few
heated apartment-houses, and rents for these would be more than .f20
a month. The majority of wage-earners probably ])ay between '^l.lTt
and |o per week and do not have a bath. The demand for the larger
apartments with baths far exceeds the supply. Many families are
forced to live in inferior and crowded quarters at the present time
because no others are to be obtained.
Two dollars twenty-five cents a week or $111 a year for four rooms
and toilet may be set as a minimum figure for housing a family of
five in Fall Kiver, according to existing conditions. Three dollars
fifty cents a week or ^182 a year will secure somewhat better accom-
modations.
Clothing. — To obtain the cost of clothing for a family of five, bud-
gets were constructed containing the different articles which prob-
ably would be purchased in the course of a year and prices were col-
lected from a number of stores which cater to wage-earners. Quota-
tions were secured for comparatively low-priced but standard grades
of goods and these were averaged to obtain the prices given in Table
3. In deciding on the quantity of each article required, the quality
of the goods was taken into account. In the case of articles which
would not necessarily be replaced every year, what was considered
to be a proper fraction of the cost in October, 1919, is given.
Gi
TABLE 3— COST OF A LIBERAL ALLOWANCE OF CLOTHING FOR A YEAR.
(National Industrial Conference Board)
Man's budget.
Cost,
October,
1919.
Woman's budget.
Cost,
October,
1919.
1 suit
% overcoat
1 pair heavy trousers
Vz sweater
2 ahirts
3 work shirts
3 pairs overalls
2 pairs shoes
Repair of shoes
8 pairs hose
3 union suits
2 nightshirts
4 collars
3 ties
1/2 felt hat
Straw hat
Cap
Gloves
Sundries
All items
$28.00
7.50
6.00
2.50
3.50
3.50
5.65
15.75
3.35
4.00
3.90
2.80
1.00
1.50
1.75
2.00
1.25
2.25
3.00
$99.20
1 coat or suit . .
V2 dress
1 cotton skirt . .
2 waists
2 house dresses
3 aprons
1% pairs shoes .
1 pair overshoes
Repair of shoes ,
6 pairs hose . . .
pairs corsets .
union suits . .
chemises . . ..
petticoats
nightgowns . .
straw hat . . .
velvet hat . . ..
Gloves
Sundries
$26.00
5.25
1.98
3.60
4.25
1.90
12.95
.95
2.35
3.00
4.65
4.00
2.00
2.00
4.50
1.75
2.00
3.00
4.00
All items 1 $91.13
CHILDREN'S BUDGETS.
Cost,
Boy Oct.,
Age 13-14 1919.
Cost,
Boy Oct.,
Age 5-6. 1919.
Girl.
Age 8-9.
Cost,
Oct.,
1919.
Va mackinaw
$3.20
1.20
12.75
2.25
3.00
3.50
3.00
3.35
8.00
.95
.40
1.50
1.00
2.40
1.25
Vb coat
Vi sweater
$2.60
1.15
8.65
1.80
2.75
3.65
1.85
2.35
2.40
5.40
.75
.40
1.80
.40
1.65
.50
Vs coat
Vs sweater
1 wool dress
2 cotton dresses. . .
1 white petticoat. ..
2 pairs bloomers —
3 union suits
3 underwaists
2 nightgowns
6 pairs stockings . .
2 pairs boots
1 pair overshoes . .
1 pair mittens
1 felt hat
1 straw hat
Repair of shoes. . . .
Sundries
All items
$3.40
2.00
1 suit
1 suit
1 pair trousers
3 blouses
3 union suits
3 underwaists
2 nightgowns
6 pairs stocking
2 pairs boots
1 pair overshoes
1 pair mittens
2 caps
1 Windsor tie
Repair of shoes. . . .
Sundries
8.00
1 pair trousers ....
3 shirts
3 union suits
2 nightshirts
8 pairs stockings ...
2 pairs boots
1 pair overshoes . .
1 pair mittens
2 caps
3 ties
Repair of shoes. . . .
Sundries
5.00
1.50
1.30
2.75
1.89
2.50
2.58
8.00
.80
.40
2.00
1.80
1.65
All items
.50
$47.75
$38.10
$46.07
65
This clothing allowance for a family of five iiersons would cost
$322.25 a year at prices prevailing in Fall Kiver in October, 1919.
While the prices given are comparatively low and the quality allowed
is not excessive, clothing may be purchased for less and the re<}uire-
ments of decency and comfort at an American standard may be met
with fewer articles. As a matter of fact, a large projjortion of fami-
lies in Fall Kiver do not spend so much as this for clothing, since
many of them make certain garments at home or buy them at bar-
sain prices, with a material reduction in cost. For this reason, the
clothing budget as given mu>st be regarded as ample rather than as
a minimum. To allow for the different means by which the cost of
clothing may be reduced, approximately 25 per cent was deducted,
bringing the annual minimum cost of an American standard of cloth-
ing in Fall River, according to prices prevailing in October, 1911), to
1243.36.
Fuel, heat and light. — The average wage-earning family in Fall
River burns about three tons of coal per season. This provides fuel
for a kitchen range and usually for one other stove. Prices of coal
(}Uoted by three dealers were as follows: <'hestnut, |13.75, l$13.75,
113.00; stove, |14.00, |14.00, |12.75.
This means an average annual expenditure of approximately
140.63 for the grade of coal generally bought.
Many families, however, buy their coal in small lots from the
neighborhood stores, which would make the total annual cost of fuel
somewhat higher, provided the same amount were purchased. For
this reason, and to allow for a minimum amount of kindling wood,
it has been estimated that at least $45 per year would be required
for fuel at the prices prevailing in October, 1919.
Gas is commonly used for lighting. The local gas company re-
ported that there were 27,236 meters in use in the city, or one meter
to every 4.5 persons. A gas stove is in practically every wage-
earner's home. The present price of gas is $1.05 net per thousand
cubic feet. The average monthly gas bill for wage-earners is said by
the company to be about $1.90 net. Electricity is burned for lighting
purposes in many of the newer tenements even when the rent is low,
and the average bill for wage-earners for electricity is about $1 per
month. In recognition of the fact that some families bum gas for
cooking only and have an additional expenditure for electric light,
the yearly cost of gas and electricity together is estimated at $25.20
in 1919.
The average annual cost of fuel, heat and light combined in Fall
River at prices prevailing iu October, 1919, may therefore be placed
66
at f70.20, or ^l..T) per week. For families having larger homes the
cost of these items would be somewhat greater. To allow for this,
the expenditure for fuel, heat and light has been increased somewhat
in the more liberal budget, making the annual cost of this item
1:84.25, or |!l.G2 per week.
Sundries. — From information received from the local street rail
way company, it appears that not over 25 ])er cent of the mill opera-
tives use the street cars in going to and from work. The single fare
is 10 cents, but a commutation ticket plan was put into operation in
September, V.)V.\, by which 50 rides could be obtained for .f3, provided
the ticket was used within a month. It has been found, however, that
many of the more poorly paid wage-earners are not able to si)end |o
at one time for car tickets and the street-car company reported that,
in practice, the tickets were sold mainly to those earning above |25
a week. Some of the mills have now arranged to sell the |3 tickets
to their employees on the instalment plan.
The chief form of amusement in Fall River is moving pictures.
There are a dozen houses in the city to which admission is usually 15
cents, or 17 cents with the war tax. Children are admitted to the
smaller houses on Saturday afternoons for six cents. The patronage
is large. One or two of the theaters frequently offer vaudeville shows
and plays for which prices of admission range as high as |2. There
are also a number of public dance halls, to which admission is 25
cents.
Doctors' fees, by recent vote of the local nu'dical society, are .f2 for
an ofKce call and |3 for a house visit.
Almost all wage-earners in Fall River carry burial or life insur-
ance, and the insurance business is said to be thriving. The Philan-
thro})ic Burial Society alone, a local organization which has extended
its activities to New Bedford and elsewhere, has a membership of
30,000 in Fall River. This society i)ays a funeral benefit of |125 in
return for monthly dues of 15 cents to 30 cents. It was the belief of
the secretary of the society that most of its policy-holders were in-
sured in other organizations also. The Metropolitan and Prudential
Life Insurance (companies have offices in Fall River, and together
they insure 75,000 j^ei-sons. Their policy-holders make payments
averaging about 10 cents per week. In addition. Fall River has 73
.lodges of various fraternal organizations for men, many of which pro-
vide insurance benefits for their numbers. Many of the mills are re-
ported to be carrying life insurance policies for their employees
valued at from $500 to flOOO. A contributory system of cash bene-
fits for sickness also obtains in some of the mills.
67
The price of daily newspapers, French and English, is two cents,
and the Boston Sunday paper, which is extensively read, is seven
cents.
A considerable proportion of the amount spent for sundries appar-
ently goes to the suj)port of the church. The city is about 80 per cent
Roman Catholic. There are a large number of Koman Catholic
churches, 17 parochial elementary schools, a Koman ('atholic acad-
emy and a Roman Catholic commercial school. These schools are
maintained chiefly by the French and Irish. The French parochial
schools require a payment of 50 cents per month per child and the
child furnishes his own books. The Irish Roman Catholic schools,
on the other hand, are supported through contributions to the church
itself and tuition and books are free to any child in the parish.
While, of course, public schools are provided in the city, about one-
third of the children attend the parochial schools.
It is practically impossible to estimate the amount spent for each
separate item in the sundries group, but in Table 4 is given an ap
proximation of expenses in this division of the budget. Since ex-
penditures for sundries vary widely as between different families, the
total allowed may be spent in a large variety of ways. It is believed,
however, that |5.10 per week, |265.20 per year, for the minimum
budget is sufficient ; the more liberal allowance is |6.80 per week or
P53.60 per year.
TABLE 4— AVERAGE COST OF SUNDRIES.
Minimum
standard
More liberal standard
Item
Average
weekly
cost
Average
yearly
cost
Average
weekly
cost
Average
yearly
cost
Carfare:
To work
$ .30
.20
.55
.60
.70
1.00
.45
.20
1.00
.10
$ 15.60
10.40
28.60
31.20
36.40
52.00
23.40
10.40
52.00
5.20
$ .30
.30
1.00
.65
.90
1.40
.60
.25
1.10
.30
$ 15.60
For shopping and recreation
Movies and other entertainments
Medical care
15.60
52.00
33.80
Insurance
46.80
Church and parochial schools
72.80
Candv tobacco etc
31.20
Reading material
13.00
Household furnishings and supplies
Organizations
57.20
15.60
All sundries
$5.10
$265.20
$6.80
$353 60
68
The Completi: Buugkt,
In Table 5 have been combined the figures given for the cost of a
year's allowance of each of the separate items entering into the aver-
age family budget. From this it appears that at least $1,267,76 per
year is necessary to maintain a family of five persons at an American
standard of living in Fall Kiver, Mass., on the basis of prices pre
vailing in October, 1019. This would require an income of $24.38
per week the year round.
In order to maintain life at somewhat more comfortable stand-
ard, through allowing for slightly more liberal expenditures,
|1,.^7:{.1M) j)er year will be necessary, or a steady income of $.30.27 per
week.
In neither of these estimates is any provision made for savings
other than insurance. It should be noted, however, that while allow-
ance has been made in the budget for medical care, recreation and in-
surance, these are to a certain exent jirovided free if oj)eratives care
to avail themselves of the facilities oftered. Thus, life insurance pre-
miums are paid by man}- of the mills; social activities are supported
by a few and a nursing service by some. Although allowance for
parochial schools is included in the budget, there are good public
schools available in the city without cost. Taking these circum-
stances into account, the estimates of the sums needed to maintain
an American standard of living in Fall River in October, 1919, are
as rei)resentative as any which can be reached.
These sums provide for the maintenance of a family of five at an
American standard of living, where the father is the sole wage
earner. It should be recognized, however, that the foreign families
are frequently larger and that in many of them there are several
wage-earners. Their standard of living, on the other hand, is intrin-
sically lower. * * »
GO
TABLE 5~AVERAGE COST OF LIVING FOR A MAN. WIFE AND THREE
CHILDREN UNDER P^OURTEEN YEARS OF AGE IN FALL RIVER.
MASSACHUSETTS. OCTOBER, 1919.
Budget item
Minimum standard
Average [ Average
weekly
cost
yearly
cost
More liberal standard
Average
weekly
cost
Average
yearly
cost
Food
Shelter
Clothing
Fuel, heat and light
Sundries
All items. . .
$11.00
2.25
4.68
1.35
5.10
572.00
117.00
243.36
70.20
365.20
$24.38
$1,267.76
$12.15
3.50
6.20
1.62
6.80
$30.27
631.80
182.00
322.25
84.25
353.60
$1,573.90
70
VI
COST OF LIVING AMONG WAGE-EARNERS IN LAWRENCE,
MASSACHUSETTS, NOVEMBER, 1919
Study Made by the National Industrial Conference Board.
The full report iras published hij the Xational Industrial Confer-
ence Board, Boaton, Massachusetts, as Research Report Nmnher 24.
The folloicing is an almost complete extract of the portions of tJie
repart dealimj with the quantity hudfjet and its cost in October,
1919:
The investigation of the cost of living in Lawrence, Mass., in No-
vember, 1919, on which this report is based, was undertaken for the
purpose of ascertaining the cost of maintaining a minimum but rea-
sonable standard of living for a representative wage-earner's family,
and the cost of maintaining a somewhat better standard, according
to conditions actually existing in Lawrence. * ♦ *
As in the case of a similar study in Fall River, Mass., no attempt
was made to collect family budgets. Instead, the standard budgets
which were developed for the Fall River survey, designed to cover
the needs of a man, his wife and three children under 14 years of
age, were again used. These were based on the conclusions reachetl
from careful examination of budgetary studies of wage-earner's
households made by competent agencies, and are representative of
the needs of industrial workers in most American communities.
With these lists as a guide, prices of food, clothing, shelter, fuel,
heat, light and sundries were then collected in Lawrence.
A number of social and community organizations, which were able
to furnish information regarding general living conditions in the
city, were also consulted. In addition, a group of 35 operatives in
one of the mills gave much valuable information regarding their own
actual family expenses. The data thus furnished were used to cor-
rect and check the basic budgets and, particularly in the case of
rents, to supplement figures obtained from other sources. * * *
71
Food. — The two food budjjcts uso<l in this study arc the same willi
respect to quality and (juantity as were used in I'^all liivci-. The lirst,
given ill Table 1, represents the ininiinuin leciuiieincnts ; the second,
in Table 2, permits of a more varied diet.
TABLE 1— MINIMUM FOOD BUDGET FOR A WEEK.
Item and amount.
Cost,
November,
1919.
Item and amount.
Cost,
November,
1919.
Meat and Fish
2 lbs. flank
2 lbs. chuck
V-' lb. bacon
$ .30
.48
.21
.30
.23
.62
.68
.19
.43
2.38
.75
.14
.12
.12
.21
.17
Fruit
3 qts. apples
3 oranges-
4 bananas
Vz lb. raisins
$ .34
.11
.12
1 lb dried cod
.14
1 can salmon
1 lb. prunes
l$read, Cereals, etc
12 lbs bread
.29
Dairy Products
1 doz. eggs
1 lb. butter
V2 lb. oleomargarine or lard.
1 lb cheese
1.24
2 lbs. flour
1 lb cornmea!
.17
.07 •
1 lb. rice
.18
14 ats milk
1 lb. macaroni
.19
Vegetables
IVo nks notafoes
3 lbs rolled oats .*. .
.21
3 lbs. sugar
.33
3 lbs. carrots
2 lbs. onions
3 lbs. cabbage
2 lbs dried beans
1 pt. molasses
Tea, Coffee, etc
1/4 lb. tea
V2 lb. coffee
.15
.12
.22
1 can tomatoes
Vz lb. cocoa
Condiments
Total weekly cost
.22
.12
$11.55
Prices for the various articles in these two food budgets were col-
lected from retail dealers in Lawrence. In all, figures were furnished
by four down-town stores; by one branch of a chain store having
eight other branches in Lawrence, and by seven neighborhood stores,
of which two were Italian, two (Jerinmi, one English, one French,
and one I*olish. When there was more than one <iuality of an article
the quotation used was the lowest consistent with what appeared to
be good value. Prices of bulk goods were used in preference to i)rice8
of package goods where this was jwssible, but in some instances, par-
ticularly in the smaller neighborhood stores, certain articles were
obtainable only in i)ackages. Prices for package goods were usually
higher than for goods sold in bulk.
72
TABLE 2— MORE LIBERAL WEEKLY FOOD BUDGET.
Item and amount.
Cost,
November,
1919.
Item and amount.
Cost,
November,
1919.
Moat and Fish
2 lb. flanks
1 lb. hamburg
$ .30
.26
.75
.21
.30
.23
.62
.68
.19
.43
2.38
1.00
.10
.24
.08
.21
.17
Fruits
3 qts. apples
V2 doz. oranges
$ .34
.22
3 lbs. leg mutton
% doz. bananas
.18
V2 lb. bacon
V2 lb. raisins
.14
1 lb. dried cod
1 lb. prunes
Kread, Cereals, etc.
12 lbs. bread
.29
1 can salmon
Dairy Prodncts
1.24
1 doz. eggs
2 lbs. flour
1 lb. cornmeal
1 lb. macaroni
2 lbs. rolled oats
17
1 lb. butter
.07
M: lb. oleomargarine or lard.
1 lb. cheese
.19
.14
14 qts. milk
1 pkg. cornflakes
.14
Vegetables
2 pks. potatoes
2 lbs. carrots
Vz lb. tapioca
3 lbs. sugar
1 pt. molasses
Tea, Coffee, etc.
14 lb. tea
.08
.33
.15
4 lbs. onions
2 lbs. cabbage
.12
2 lbs. dried beans
Vz lb. coffee
.22
1 can tomatoes
•
V2 lb. cocoa
Condiments
Total weekly cost
.22
.16
$12.55
The articles of food actually purchased by different families vary
widely, of course, owing to differences in customs and tastes, and it
is obviously impossible to construct budgets which would be univer-
sally applicable. The best that can be done in the case of a minimum
standard, therefore, is to insure a sufficient and balanced diet, per-
mitting of reasonable variety. The weekly allowance of |11.55 for
the minimum budget means that fGOO.GO a year would be required
for food for a family of man, wife, and three children under 14 years
of age; for |12.55 a week, or 1652.60 a year, a somewhat more liberal
diet could be secured.
Shelter. — Information as to the cost of shelter was secured from
the social organizations of Lawrence and from several renting agen-
cies. One mill had a record of the rents paid by 85 of its employees
in April and October, 1911), which was available for use in connec-
tion with this study. The mill operatives who were consulted by an
agent of the Board gave figures as to their own expenditures for shel-
ter. Visits were paid to the different sections of the city to obtain
first-hand information regarding living conditions, and in several in-
stances oj)portunity was afforded for inspection of the interior of
rented houses.
73
The majority of mill operatives in Lawrence live iu two-story or
three-story frame tenements, althou{]jh in the crowded down-town
section the houses are larger. There Is a great scarcity of houses of
all kinds and at best there are very few cottages or heated apart-
ments for wage-earners. The average tenement consists of four or
five rooms, unheated, with gas and toilet or bath. Rents range from
$2.50 to |5 a week. Three dollars fifty cents a week, or |182 a year,
is the least that should be allowed in November for a tenement in
ordinary repair. For this sum four or five rooms with gas could be
secured. There would probably not be a bath. For a somewhat bet-
ter tenement of five rooms and bath |4.50 a week, or $234 a year,
would be required.
Clothing.— The basic clothing budgets which were constructed for
use in Fall River were also used in the Lawrence survey. These in-
clude the requirements of a man, his wife and three children, the ages
of the latter being arbitrarily assigned for pui*poses of this study.
Prices of a large number of articles of wearing apparel and yard
goods were then collected from representative stores. Four depart-
ment stores, five men's clothing stores, one women's specialty shop,
one children's specialty shop and three shoe stores furnished quota
tions. In the minimum budget, shown in Table 3, averages of the
lowest prices for full stocks were used. The cost of a number of arti-
cles was computed on the basis of the amount of yard goods and
other materials required to make them'. When an article would not
necessarily be replaced every year, a suitable proportion of its cost
in November, 1919, was used.
74
TABLE 3— COST OF A MINIMUM ALLOWANCE OF CLOTHING FOR A YEAR.
Man's budget.
1 suit
% overcoat
1 pair heavy trousers.
^/^ sweater
2 shirts ,
3 work shirts
3 pairs overalls
2 pairs shoes
Repair of shoes
8 pairs stockings . . ..
3 union suits . ,
2 night shirts
4 collars
3 ties
% felt hat
1 straw hat
1 cap
Gloves
Sundries
Woman's budget.
All items I $87.10
1 coat or suit
% dress (material)
1 cotton skirt
2 waists
2 house dresses (material)
3 aprons (material)
1% pairs shoes
1 pair overshoes
Repair of shoes ,
6 pairs stockings ,
2 pairs corsets
4 union suits
3 chemises (material) . ...
2 petticoats (material for 1)
3 nightgowns (material) . .,
1 straw hat
1 velvet hat
Gloves
Sundries
All items
Cost.
November,
1919.
$25.00
4.00
1.00
2.50
3.00
1.40
8.00
.85
3.00
1.45
3.30
3.90
2.25
1.95
2.90
1.98
1.98
2.75
4.00
$75.21
CHILDREN'S BUDGETS.
Cost,
•
Cost,
Cost,
Boy
Nov.,
Boy
Nov.,
Girl
Nov.,
Age 13-14
1919
Age 5-6
1919
Age 8-9
1919
% mackinaw
$2.50
Vs coat
$2.25
1.00
1
'^ coat
$3.00
% sweater
1.00
% sweater
Vs sweater
1.25
1 suit
8.00
1.50
suit
5.00
1.25
1 wool dress
(material)
1 pair trousers
1 pair trousers
6.00
3 shirts
1.60
3 blouses .
1.31
cotton dresses. . .
(material)
(material)
(material)
2.61
3 union suits
2.50
3 union suits
2.50
white petticoat.. .
2 night shirts
3 underwaists
1.40
(material)
.50
(material)
1.92
I2 night gowns
pairs bloomers
8 pairs stockings. . .
3.20
(material)
1.28
(material)
.93
2 pairs shoes
7.50
6 pairs stockings.. .
2.20
union suits
2.50
Repair of shoes
2.40
2 pairs shoes
6.50
underwaists
1.50
1 pair overshoes
.95
Repair of shoes
1.65
night gowns
1 pair mittens
.50
1 pair overshoes
.70
(material)
1.50
2 caps
175
1 pair mittens
'2 caps
40
pairs stockings...
2.10
3 ties
1.25
1.00
1.40
.45
£ pairs shoes
Repair of shoes
7.50
Sundries
1 Windsor tie
1.65
Sundries
.50
pair overshoes —
pair mittens
.75
.40
3 felt hat
1.75
1 straw hat
1.50
All items
Sundries
.50
All items
All items
$37.57
$29.79
$35.94
75
TABLE 4— COST OF A MORE LIBERAL ALLOWANCE OF CLOTHING
FOR A YEAR.
Man's budget.
Cost,
November,
1919.
Woman's budget.
Cost,
November,
1919.
1 suit
% overcoat
1 pair heavy trousers.
i'2 sweater
2 shirts
3 work shirts
3 pairs overalls
2 pairs shoes . .
Repair of shoes
S pairs stockings . . . .
3 union suits
2 night shirts
4 collars
3 ties
¥2 felt hat
1 straw hat
1 cap
Gloves
Sundries
$30.00
9.25
7.00
2.50
4.50
4.50
7.00
20.00
3.90
2.00
4.50
3.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.00
1.65
2.50
3.00
All item I $112.30
1 coat or suit. . .
V2 dress
1 cotton skirt . .
2 waists
2 house dresses .
3 aprons
1% pairs shoes . .
1 pair overshoes .
Repair of shoes .
6 pairs stockings
2 pairs corsets .
4 union suits . . ..
3 chemises
2 petticoats . . ..
3 nightgowns . . ..
1 straw hat . . .
1 velvet hat . . . .
Gloves
Sundries
All items.
$26.00
5.00
1.75
4.00
4.25
2.50
13.00
.85
2.80
3.50
4.00
5.00
4.25
2.75
4.75
1.98
1.98
3.25
4.00
$95.61
CHILDREN'S BUDGETS.
Boy
Age 13-14
Cost,
Nov.,
1919
Boy
Age 5-6
Cost,
Nov.,
1919
Girl
Age 8-9
Cost,
Nov.,
1919
% mackinaw
$3.25
1.50
12.50
2.00
3.45
3.50
2.00
3.60
! 12.00
2.40 1
.95
.50
1.75
% coat
$2.40
1.20
6.50
1.25
2.85
3.00
1.50
2.00
2.40 !
7.00 '
1.65
.70
.45
1.60
.45
.50
% coat
$3.50
Vs sweater
1 suit
Vs sweater
1 suit
% sweater
1 wool dress
2 cotton dresses. . .
1 white petticoat. .
2 pairs bloomers —
3 union suits
underwaists
2 night gowns
6 pairs stockings. . .
2 pairs shoes
Repair of shoes. . . .
1 pair overshoes. . .
1 pair mittens
1 felt hat
1.55
7.00
1 pair trousers
3 shirts
1 pair trousers. . . .
3 blouses
5.00
.75
3 union suits
2 night shirts
8 pairs stockings.. .
2 pair shoes
Repair of shoes
1 pair overshoes —
1 pair mittens
2 caps
3 union suits
3 underwaists
2 night gowns
6 pairs stockings.. .
2 pairs shoes
Repair of shoes
1 pair overshoes
1 pair mittens
1.00
3.00
1.60
2.00
2.10
10.35
1.65
.75
3 ties
1.50
1.25
'2 caps
.50
Sundries
1 Windsor tie
1.75
.Sundries
1 straw hat
Sundries
1.75
All items
.50
All items
All items . . .'
$52.15
$35.45
$44.75
76 •
The more liberal clothing hiidjiet, <>;iven in Table 4, contains arti-
cles in most instances of somewhat better (luality than those listed
in Table :? ; the cost of all articles was estimated according to their
prices if bought ready made.
It appears, therefore, that the minimum yearly allowance for cloth-
ing for a family of five persons in Lawrence, at prices prevailing in
November, 1919, would be f2G5.Gl. This requires that certain arti-
cles of the w^oman's and children's clothing be made at home. The
more liberal budget, which permits purchasing all goods ready made,
would amount to |:U0.2G a year. These yearly costs correspond to
average weekly expenditures of |5.11 and |G.54, respectively. The
more liberal budget permits of considerable variation in expenditure
for clothing, especially since many families living at this standard
might prefer to make a part of the clothing at home, which would
render possible a greater number of articles, or articles of better
quality.
Fuel, Heat and Light. — Families living at a minimum standard
usually burn about three tons of coal a year. The average cost of
chestnut and stove coal, as secured from three dealers in November,
1919, was |14 a ton. Some families at the minimum standard, how-
ever, do not buy coal in ton or half-ton lots, but resort to the more
expensive method of purchasing it in bags from the neighborhood
stores.
The amount and cost of kindling wood used varied widely. It was
sold at the stores at the rate of four or five baskets for a dollar, and
by some of the mills for materially less. To allow for a minimum
amount of wood and to take into consideration the fact that coal is
sometimes purchased in bags, .f^.SO has been added to the cost of
three tons of coal, thus setting 140.50 as a minimum annual expendi
ture for fuel.
Gas, which is very generally used for lighting and for a certain
amount of cooking as well, cost |1.25 net per thousand cubic feet in
November. An average of about |2 a month the year around for gas
bills was reported by a number of wage-earners. Inasmuch as fami-
lies living at the minimum standard presumably burn less, and those
at the more liberal standard burn more than the average, the
monthly bill of the former group has been arbitrarily placed at |1.90
a month and that of the latter at .f2.10. To these figures must be
added an increase of 9 per cent, effective in October, 1919. An an
nual expenditure of |24.84 for gas is, therefore, given in the minimum
budget.
For more liberal standard of living, four tons of coal a year have
77
been allowed, at an annual cost of W>. Four dollars fifty cents has
been added for wood and |L'7.48 for gas.
According to these figures, the average annual cost of fuel, heat
and light in Lawrence, at prices prevailing in November, 101!), was
$71.34, or $1.37 a week, for the niininium standard of living, and
$87.98, or $1.69 a week, for the more liberal standard.
Some families prefer to burn wood in the spring and autumn in-
stead of coal. The fuel allowance provided above permits of the sub-
stitution of half a cord to a cord of wood for coal, if desired.
Sundries.— Of all the divisions of the family budget, that including
sundries is the most difticult for which to determine standards. Al-
though it is impossible to estimate accurately the amount necessarily
spent for each separate item, since the needs and desires of individual
families vary very widely, a fair approximation may be reached.
From figures submitted by the Law^rence mills to the local Cham-
ber of Commerce, it appears that not over 15 per cent of the em-
ployees ride to and from work. The street-car situation was much
confused in November, 1919. During the week this investigation was
made, street-car fares were ten cents and jitney fares seven cents,
and, as nearly as could be ascertained, each carried about 50 per cent
of the traflic. At the close of the month jitney licenses were revoked
and street-car fares were reduced to IG tickets for a dollar. This
arrangement did not meet with immediate success, however, and may
have been only temporary.
There are a number of motion-picture houses in Lawrence, to
which the usual cost of admission is 11 cents in the afternoon and 17
cents in the evening. The price of daily newspapers is two cents;
the Boston Sunday paper is seven cents. Doctors' fees are $2 for an
office call and $3 for a house visit.
There are a great many clubs, societies and lodges in Lawrence,
membership in which is generally confined to nationalistic groups.
Nearly 100 lodges and over 100 clubs and societies are listed in the
directory, but some of these are small. A considerable part of the
social life of the city is carried on through these organizations.
Some of the lodges offer their members sick or death benefit privi-
leges also.
A large amount of burial insurance is carried by commercial life
insurance companies. It is estimated that about 70 per cent of the
wage-earners and their famillies are insured. The average weekly
payment per policy is between 10 cents and 15 cents. Some indi-
viduals carry two or more policies, however, and the actual number
78
of industrial policies as reported by the leading insurance companies
is larger than the industrial ])oi»ulati()n.
Lawrence is preponderantly Konian Catholic and the church is
well supported. About one-third of the children attend jiarochial
schools. Jn some parishes the cost of the schools is included in the
"•(Mieral expenses of the chuich; in others a j)ayment of 00 cents a
month jier child is required. In addition to Roman Catholic
churches there are live churches of the Greek or other P^astern rites,
and l*rotestant churches for Italians, Germans, Armenians, Syrians
and Swedes. In general, the expense of supi)orting these does not
ai)])ear to be so great as that in the Roman Catholic parishes.
Reasonable average expenditures for these and a few additional
items, according to the best estimates available, are given in Table 5.
On the basis of these estimates the necessary total allowance for sun-
dries for the minimum standard amounts to |5.12 a week, or $266.24
a year. The more liberal budget allows for |G.60 a week, or |!.343.20
annually.
TABLE 5— AVERAGE COST OF SUNDRIES.
Minimum
standard
More liberal standard
Item
Average
weekly
cost
Average
yearly
cost
Average
weekly
cost
Average
yearly
cost
Transportation:
To work
$ .20
.20
.67
.60
.70
.90
.45
.20
1.00
.20
$ 10.40
10.40
34.84
31.20
36.40
46.80
23.40
10.40
52.00
10.40
$ .20
.30
1.00
.65
.90
1.20
.60
.25
1.10
.40
$ 10.40
For shopping and recreation
Movies and other entertainments
Medical care
15.60
52.00
33.80
Insurance
46.80
Church and parochial schools
62.40
Candy, tobacco, etc
31.20
Reading material
13.00
Household furnishings and supplies
Organizations
57.20
20 80
Total sundries
$5.12
$266.24
$6.60
$343.20
The Complete Budget.
The average cost of all items entering into the family budget and
of all items combined is given in Table 6. These figures indicate that
at least |1,. 385.79 a year is necessary to maintain a family of five at
79
a reasonable ininiuiiini standard in Lawrence, according to prices
prevailing in November, 1919. This reqnires an average weekly
income of ?26.G5 the year round. The somewhat higher standard of
living demands a yearly income of |l,r)o8.04, or an average of |;.'U.(S,S
a week. It should be noted that the totals both in the minimum and
in the more liberal budget make allowance only for expenditures and
do not include provision for savings except as this is effected by
insurance.
TABLE 6— AVERAGE COST OF LIVING FOR A MAN, WIFE. AND THREE
CHILDREN UNDER 14 YEARS OF AGE IN LAWRENCE, MASSACHUSETTS,
NOVEMBER, 1919.
Minimum standard
More liberal standard
Budget item
Average 1 Average
weekly yearly
cost cost
Average
weekly
cost
Average
yearly
cost
Food
$11.55 $600.60
3.50 182.00
5.11 265.61
1.37 71.34
5.12 266.24
$12.55
4.50
6.54
1.69
6.60
$ 652.60
Shelter
234.00
Clothing
340.26
Fuel, heat and light
87.98
Sundries
343.20
All items
$26.65 $1,385.79
$31.88
$1,658.04
Within the total allowed for the more liberal budget, considerable
variation in the amount spent for each separate item is possible, and
even in the minimum budget a little variation may be made. For
example, in talking with mill operatives it developed that nuiny of
them preferred to buy better meats, such as steak and chicken, cut-
ting down expenditures for such an item as motion pictures.
It should be emphasized, also, that the estimates given for the
mininnim budget have been made to meet the needs of a family with
three children, where the father is assumed tol)ethesole wage-eai-ner.
and the mother is able to do all of the housework, including sewing
and laundry. Many famillies in Lawrence comj)rise more than three
children, and in many of them the mother, as well as the father, is
at work. It may be, also, that some families in certain respects re-
quire less than the mininnim indicated. But it aj)])ears from the
evidence at hand that tlie maintenance of health and strength can
scarcely be secured for less than tlie totals allowed.
/
If
'%
THIS BOOK IS DUE ON THE LAST DATE
STAMPED BELOW
AN INITIAL FINE OF 25 CENTS
WILL BE ASSESSED FOR FAILURE TO RETURN
THIS BOOK ON THE DATE DUE. THE PENALTY
WILL INCREASE TO 50 CENTS ON THE FOURTH
DAY AND TO $1.00 ON THE SEVENTH DAY
OVERDUE.
OCT O <qo«
1=-*' .1 ' . <9,)0
■^'^Ai\W
NO^ V&^^^
MKf 9 ^342
LD 21-95w» 7.'37
Pamphlet
Binder
Gaylord Bros., Inc.
Makers
Stockton, Calif.
PAT. IAN. 21. 1908
78s;^s
//
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