Many items were rationed during WWII, one of which was meat. The caused poultry and poultry products to become very popular. Due to the difficulties in transporting poultry to the troops, chickens and especially turkey became a popular, non-rationed meat. For many this was also a change in mindset for many, as many didn鈥檛 believe poultry to be a protein, so re-education occurred. Poultry production encouragement caused many backyard flocks of chickens and turkeys to crop up. Though many foods were rationed, poultry and eggs were not and became vital sources of protein for people, and South Dakota joined in poultry production. The USDA reported that South Dakota chicken production increased from 9.1 million birds in 1942 to 11.5 million in 1944. The production of chickens and turkeys increased dramatically in the early 1940s, which also boosted morale. By not taking other meat sources from the troops, patriotism stirred in poultry production.
SDAHM Sudlow Collection 30-8-6