You Ought to See the Little Garden In Our Back Yard, 1918
James Brockman (Composer); Jeff T. Branen, 1872-1927 (Lyricist); Kendis-Brockman Music Co., New York, NY
Lithograph on paper
On loan from the Joseph M. Bruccoli Great War Collection, Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, University of South Carolina
As a patriotic duty, the planting of victory gardens was held in such high regard that it was almost seen as akin to serving in the military. Such conflation is shown in this cover, as a military veteran adorned with medals and featured with a peg leg, shows off his garden to the viewer. He is as proud of his garden as he is his awards from previous service, likely in the Civil War. Behind him presumably stands presumably his grandson, waving to the soldiers as they pass by. Notably absent is the father, likely one of the soldiers marching by or already serving overseas. The pairing of the grandfather and grandson brings a generational connection to the concept of enlistment. Such was the genesis of numerous military families, serving generation after generation.