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While subdivisions for new homes were being carved out of farm lands during the 1950s, the modern family was "subdividing" by generations. During this period, teenagers began to receive attention as a unique group, baffling their parents and offering a rich market for merchandisers. Basement recreation rooms became the hangout for children while parents retreated to quieter sections of the house. Grandparents were more likely to seek housing that excluded children, such as retirement homes and communities, or to move more reluctantly to rest homes, where strangers rather than family members would care for them.

Enter a House Subdivided.

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96