Elmira in the 1920s

 

The 1920s were a time of struggle between traditional values and modernity.  Although popularly called “Roaring ‘20s” or the “age of wonderful nonsense,” the 1920s were more complex than those names suggest.  The economy grew and technology advanced, but not all Americans benefited.  Tensions were high as long-standing cultural and religious beliefs were challenged by new social and scientific movements.  While flappers were dancing in speakeasies, Klansmen were marching down Main Street.  The promise of the American Dream and easy credit led to higher standards of living and dangerous levels of debt.

 

In the 1920s, the Elmira Chamber of Commerce featured the slogan, “We have faith in our city” on a promotional pamphlet which sold Elmira as “the ideal city in which to live and labor.”  The phrase was intended to attract business and boost consumer spending, but it also reflected broader community concerns.  Elmira’s business district and suburbs were expanding and the ethnic and religious makeup of the city changed.  In this decade, Elmira mirrored national trends. This exhibit will examine Prohibition, the growth of community organizations, issues of class and upward mobility, entertainment, and architecture.