Newspapers

Jurgis learns to read after joining the union. The newspaper becomes a source of fun for the whole family when Jurgis purchases and reads it to everyone, including his baby son Antanas.

Lard

The packing houses make lard from the remnants of the cows and pigs they kill. This is then put into cans and sold to the public. Stanislovas works the machine the fills the cans.

Trimming Knife

Marija uses a trimming knife in her job as a trimmer. These knives often become slick during a day’s work. This is a dangerous situation that leads to many cuts. Marija becomes a victim of this kind of cut while Jurgis is in jail the first time.

Hundred Dollar Bill

Jurgis is given a hundred dollar bill by Freddie Jones, the son of one of the packers. When Jurgis tries to get the bill changed, it...