California Recreation (1937 Original Black & White Film)

Step back to 1937 with *California Recreation*, a vibrant documentary that showcases the wide range of recreation programs sponsored by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) across the state of California. This film highlights the importance of physical activity, community engagement, and cultural enrichment during the Great Depression.

The documentary begins in Monterey, where viewers are introduced to the exciting sport of bike polo, before moving to Paso Robles, where participants are seen engaged in beekeeping—a unique and hands-on hobby. In San Luis Obispo, the film showcases the art of trout fly-making, a skill that connects people to nature. Pottery shaping in Morro Bay captures the creativity fostered by WPA programs, while in San Francisco, children are seen with model airplanes, demonstrating the educational aspects of recreational activities.

Moving south, *California Recreation* features scenes of swimming in San Diego and archery classes in Redding, offering a glimpse into both traditional and emerging sports of the time. In Sacramento, girls perform calisthenics, emphasizing the WPA’s commitment to fitness for all ages. The film also takes viewers to Stockton, where a puppet show entertains the community, and to Modesto for a lively rope trick exhibition, showcasing the diverse ways people came together for recreation.

In Oakland, lawn bowling offers a more relaxed but equally engaging form of recreation, while San Jose hosts thrilling bicycle races in a velodrome. The documentary concludes with a grand recreation parade in Fresno, celebrating the diversity of WPA-sponsored activities throughout the state.

*California Recreation* serves as a testament to the WPA’s efforts in bringing accessible and enriching activities to people across the state, fostering a sense of community and improving the quality of life during a challenging period in American history.

Source: National Archives. (1937). *California Recreation*. [Video] Retrieved from the National Archives Catalog, https://catalog.archives.gov/id/12369