DailyTimeCapsule brief
September 17, 1939
On September 17, 1939, the United States was witnessing notable economic optimism amidst the backdrop of World War II's expansion in Europe. The Under-Secretary of the Treasury expressed confidence that the American economy was recovering, indicating that 'money is coming out of the storm cellar.' This marked a significant shift from the economic hardships of the Great Depression, as businesses began to show signs of profitability again. Concurrently, Hollywood was abuzz with news about Deanna Durbin, a beloved young actress, who was set to accumulate a fortune of $1,000,000 by the age of 21, highlighting the era's fascination with celebrity culture. Additionally, in Greenburgh, New York, 2,200 lots were scheduled for auction following foreclosure, signaling ongoing financial challenges for some American families during this recovery period. These developments reflect a complex socio-economic landscape as the country prepared for potential global conflicts while revitalizing its own economy.
Key developments
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On September 17, 1939, it was reported that Deanna Durbin, known as 'America's Kid Sister,' would amass an impressive $1,000,000 in the bank by her 21st birthday. This achievement highlighted her status as a leading child actress of her time. Durbin's career was marked by her incredible talent and popularity in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s.
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On September 17, 1939, Under-Secretary of Treasury Hanes expressed optimism for business recovery, noting that money was 'coming out of the storm cellar.' He highlighted the return of the profit motive in industry, urging businesses to avoid creating 'stepladder' price increases. This statement was part of a broader discussion on the recovery of the American economy following the Great Depression.
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2,200 LOTS OFFERED IN GREENBURGH SALE; Parcels Taken in Foreclosure to Be Auctioned Sept. 30, Oct. 4
