Hobo's

Hobo's, Portland, 2017

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Hobo's sign, Portland, 2017

Hobos are individuals who travel from place to place looking for work, often by "riding the rails," a term that refers to the practice of hopping on freight trains without permission. The phenomenon became particularly prominent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, amidst economic downturns such as the Great Depression. Hobos are distinct from tramps, who travel but do not work, and bums, who neither travel nor work. The hobo lifestyle emphasizes freedom, self-reliance, and a departure from societal norms and constraints.

History

The origins of the hobo lifestyle are closely tied to the aftermath of the American Civil War, where many displaced veterans and freed slaves found themselves without work or homes. The expansion of the railroad network across the United States provided an unintended means of transportation for these individuals, leading to the emergence of the hobo as a social figure. The term "hobo" itself is of uncertain origin, but it began to appear in the late 19th century.

During the Great Depression, the number of hobos surged as unemployment rates soared. Many people, stripped of their jobs and homes, took to the railways in search of work and a new life. Hobo camps, or "jungles," sprang up near railway lines, serving as temporary communities for these travelers.

Culture

Hobo culture is rich with its own symbols, language, and codes of conduct. Hobos developed a system of symbols, or "hobo signs," to communicate with each other, providing information about dangers, resources, and the general attitude of the local population towards hobos. These signs would be covertly marked on fence posts, sidewalks, buildings, and railcars.

The hobo ethic emphasizes respect for work and the generosity of sharing with fellow travelers. This is encapsulated in the "Hobo Code," an unwritten set of guidelines that advocate for respect, honesty, and self-reliance. The National Hobo Convention, held annually in Britt, Iowa, celebrates hobo culture and heritage, featuring a parade, a coronation of the Hobo King and Queen, and sharing of stories and music.

Modern Hobos

While the classic era of hobos has faded with the rise of modern security measures on railroads and the decline of manual labor jobs, the spirit of the hobo lifestyle persists. Modern hobos, often referred to as "freighthoppers" or "trainhoppers," continue to ride the rails, though their motivations might blend traditional hobo values with contemporary wanderlust or political and social dissent.

In Popular Culture

Hobos have been romanticized and vilified in equal measure throughout American culture. They are depicted as symbols of freedom and adventure, as well as cautionary tales of the consequences of economic hardship and social exclusion. Literature, songs, and films have all explored the hobo experience, contributing to the mythos surrounding this unique way of life.

See Also

• Great Depression
• Rail transport in the United States
• Vagrancy (people)