The Women’s Land Army of America was formed during WWI to give women a way to help and farmers the workers they needed. Organized on a local, state and national level, it was self-funded as the women were paid by the farmers they worked for. The Land Army explicitly tried to mix the educational and social backgrounds of its workers so that they might experience the same leveling and bonding that the soldiers did.
Since members of the Women’s Land Army did heavy farm work, the uniform needed to be made of easily laundered materials, which would not show dirt. The short skirt allowed for freedom of movement, while the ankles and lower legs would be covered by sturdy lace up boots with thick stacked heels.
Evanston resident Ruth (Anderson) Erikson was in high school when she volunteered her service. She lived the remainder of her life in Evanston and was an active member of many organizations including the Woman’s Club of Evanston, the Women’s Republican Club and the Evanston League of Women Voters.