Philadelphia, Penna
William Fox's hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania played a crucial role in the war effort during World War II. With most, if not all, major cities getting swept into the wave of support and patriotism the war overseas brought, Philadelphia stood out in their contributions with recycling unused or unwanted metal for example, the government could build ships, airplanes and other equipment needed to fight the war.
Pennsylvania, home to many factories throughout the state, was the leading producer of crucial resources needed to win the war, such as coal and steel. Many citizens of Pennsylvania worked in these factories, while others collected any scraps they could find, such as metal and rubber tires, to donate to the cause.
Philadelphia-area industries expanded, making the region a major “arsenal for democracy” during the war. With its federal Navy yard, arsenal, and universities, Philadelphia also developed and produced new materials, instruments of communication, electronic tracking, and weaponry. The availability of defense work in cities such as Philadelphia, Camden, and Chester opened opportunities for women and African Americans, including new migrants from the countryside and the South.
Poster for the Philadelphia Salvage Committee encouraging scrap drives to aid the war effort. Prints and Photographs Division. //hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3f05676
A woman working in a Philadelphia War factory, 1943. Temple digital Library.
Industry boomed to meet the demands of the war, and citizens were asked to do their part by conserving resources.
Library of Congress.
"OPA shows how to shop under new point rationing system"
An advertisement from the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin providing instructions on how to use ration coupons, 1943.
Temple digital library.
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