Hobo graffiti from 1910s. Hidden meaning "the jail is sanitary and prisoners well fed."
The Gilliam County Historical Society will hold its annual meeting this Saturday at 6:30 PM at the Historic Hotel Condon.
This year, the Historic Graffiti Society, a non-profit organization based in Washington, will share its findings on hobo markings discovered inside Condon's 1899 City Hall and Jail.
The Historical Society moved the old City Hall and Jail to its museum complex several years ago, and have preserved the building.
Small symbols, etchings, and drawings were found inside the old jail. Some of these symbols and drawings served as guides to future hoboes.
From the late 1890s until the Second World War, thousands of men moved West to seek work or escape the Dust Bowl. Many of these men hopped freight trains, searching for a better life.
Most were agriculture workers and traveled with their belongings in a nap sack attached to a hoe or shovel. Originally called "hoe boys," the term was shortened to "hobo."
The image conjures up romantic notions of wide-open spaces and adventure. Many a folk song and country tune have memorialized this period in America's history. But in truth, the life of a hobo was exceptionally difficult. Constantly harassed by brakemen and railroad security, hobos were regular visitors to city and county jails.
When looking for clues on where to go next, how to avoid danger, and where work could be found – hobos developed a complex system of communication that they could understand, but others could not.
These symbols were etched, drawn, and painted on railroad boxcars, water stations, and buildings near railroad stations. And yes, they were even drawn inside the local jail cell.
It will no doubt be a fascinating presentation.
The Gilliam County Historical Society will also talk about their efforts to install sidewalk kiosks in Condon to educate locals and visitors about the town's historic past. Updates on restoring historical markers throughout the county will also be discussed, as will the Gilliam County Historical Driving Tour.
This is one of the best events of the year and one that shouldn't be missed.
Vicki Ackerman will prepare dinner for $25 a plate. Guests are strongly encouraged to RSVP by calling Gilliam Co. Museum Curator Ellen Hunter at (541) 384-4233 or email [email protected].
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