A sophomore year photograph of Bettie’s class. It is unknown why so few students appear in the photograph. Source: Simmons College (1935). Microcosm: 1935. Andover, MA, Andover Press.

Bettie's World

The years that Bettie attended Simmons, 1933-1937, were years of great change both in Boston and the rest of the world. The Great Depression affected the economy and the culture of the United States greatly, some of which is reflected in Bettie's scrapbook.

Despite the troubles of the surrounding world, Bettie was well immersed in American culture of the time. She spent much of her time exploring Boston's theaters, restaurants, and music halls, and always had something interesting to say about them.

When she wasn't having adventures off campus, Bettie was an active member of the Simmons class of 1937. Their official class colors were blue and yellow and the Raggedy Ann doll was the class mascot.

Source: Jean Elizabeth Goodrich Scrapbook

The tabs on the left explore aspects of Bettie’s life and times at Simmons:

• Biography explores her life before, during and after her studies at Simmons College.
• Historical Context gives a frame of reference for the mementos in the scrapbook.
• Culture of the 1930’s section explores the Boston theater scene of the 1930’s:
  • An in-depth look at the Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo ballet company.
  • A history of Burlesque.
  • Information about many of the theaters referenced in the scrapbook.

Source: Jean Elizabeth Goodrich Scrapbook

Source: Simmons College. (1937). Microcosm: 1937. Andover, MA: Andover Press.
The yearbook photograph of the Microcosm (yearbook) staff.