They say a picture is worth a thousand words. And that’s particularly true with photos from decades ago. There’s just something so interesting about pictures from the past. If you agree, read on for 10 candid photos that show what life was like in Wisconsin in the 1940s.

1. In July 1940, a young boy stops to read the comics on the steps of the public library in Milwaukee.
John Vachon/Photogrammar
2. A group of women gushes over a baby on a street corner in Sturgeon Bay.
John Vachon/Photogrammar
3. Another vintage shot from Sturgeon Bay. This one depicts a group of firemen.
John Vachon/Photogrammar
4. The Hale's Corners ancient high wheel motor wagon takes part in a parade during the 22nd annual Convention of the American Legion, which was held in Kenosha in August 1940.
library.wisc.edu
5. These cherry pickers are hard at work in Door County.
John Vachon/Photogrammar

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6. A lively scene from the American Legion 1941 4th of July parade in Watertown.
John Vachon/Photogrammar
7. Several men gather for the FSA (Farm Security Administration) district meeting in Antigo.
John Vachon/Photogrammar
8. Dated 1942, this photo shows John Stuart Curry discussing his mural in the biochemistry building at the University of Wisconsin. Also pictured is Dr. H. Steenback, an "expert on diet and radiation of food."
John Vachon/Photogrammar
9. Like many other women in 1943, the ex-housewife pictured here joined the war effort by becoming a production worker at the Vilter Company in Milwaukee.
Howard R. Hollem/Photogrammar
10. Taken at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, students wait in line to register for ration books.
Jack Delano/Photogrammar

So, what did you think of these nostalgic pictures? Did you enjoy your trip to the past? Tell us in the comments section.

Want more Wisconsin history? Click here.

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