World War II Ration Books, 1942-1945

Access and use

Location of collection:
Thomas Balch Library
Thomas Balch Library
208 West Market Street
Leesburg, Virginia 20176
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Alexandra S. Gressitt
Phone: (703) 737-7195
Fax: (703) 737-7195

Summary

Extent:
Less than 0.33 cubic feet
Creator:
Karen Titus, Ellijay, GA
Abstract:
This collection contains ten World War II ration books belonging to five Leesburg, Virginia residents: Hannah Brown di Zerega, James Gasques di Zerega, Bruce McIntosh, Daisy Pleasant McIntosh, and Mary Louise Titus.
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

This collection contains ten World War II ration books belonging to five Leesburg, Virginia residents: Hannah Brown di Zerega, James Gasques di Zerega, Bruce McIntosh, Daisy Pleasant McIntosh, and Mary Louise Titus. One book from the War Ration Book One series (issued 1942), four books from the War Ration Book Three series (issued in October 1943), and five books from the War Ration Book Four series (issued in late 1943) are included in the collection. Each book consists of sheets of stamps inside a paper cover. The collection also contains one ration book paper folder sponsored by the People's National Bank in Leesburg, VA and one ration book faux-leather wallet produced by an unknown source. Additionally, the collection contains one paper post office shipping receipt from 1943.

Biographical / historical:

During World War II, the US military prioritized sending available food and supplies to Europe and the Pacific. In order to conserve limited supplies and prevent price inflation on the home front, consumer goods were federally regulated. By order of the US Office of Price Administration, rationing throughout the United States began in the spring of 1942. A series of four ration books were issued between 1942 and the end of 1943. Several different methods of rationing, including uniform coupon rationing, point rationing, differential coupon rationing, and certificate rationing were used across the country. Besides ration books, ration coins were introduced in 1944 to allow shopkeepers to issue change for ration coupon purchases. By 1945, almost all consumer goods, with the exception of dairy and eggs, were limited by rationing. Sugar rationing continued until 1947 in parts of the United States. In an show of patriotism, many businesses promoted the rationing program, even if the company did not sell consumer products.

The ration books in this collection belonged to Bruce McIntosh (1874-1966), wife Daisy Pleasant McIntosh (1874-1958), daughter Hannah Brown di Zerega (1899-1988), son-in-law James Gasques di Zerega (1899-1950), and sister-in-law Mary Louise Titus (1889-1985). During the 1940s, the family lived together in Leesburg.

Acquisition information:
Karen Titus, Ellijay, GA
Arrangement:

Folder: Item

Physical description:
.