Smithsonian Film Series — America in Color: Made in the USA

Overview

The Smithsonian Film Series continues at the Strand 3 with "America in Color: Made in the USA". At the turn of the 20th century, 29 million Americans are working and 40% of them are farmers. Over the decades, factories expand like never before, two world wars speed up technological change, and by the 1950s, American workers have the highest wages and consumer power of any country in the world. This is the story of the men and women who built the American Dream, presented entirely in color through digitally remastered archival footage and home movies. Run time: 48 minutes.

Following the film, Melissa Strovers, Executive Director of Poweshiek Economic Development Collaborative, will lead an interactive discussion about how our world of work has changed, featuring data from the newly published Grinnell Laborshed Study. The conversation will highlight Grinnell’s workforce, local career opportunities, and why people do not have to leave the area to build a successful career.

This program is part of Grinnell College’s Smithsonian Affiliate public film series, which features Smithsonian-produced films exploring different aspects of American life and history. Running through November, each screening includes collaboration with community partners, faculty, and staff to connect the films to local experiences, Iowa history, and the broader American story—creating shared space for learning, reflection, and connection.

Address & Contact

For more information, contact:

• Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research
• (641) 269-3900
• communityenhance@grinnell.edu