How the US Government Once Crafted Charming Homes for Working-Class Families Amid a Housing Crisis

In 1918, amidst the escalating turmoil of World War I, the U.S. government embarked on an unprecedented initiative, emerging as the nation’s predominant housing developer. Over a span of two years, it crafted over 80 meticulously planned communities across 26 states, establishing neighborhoods complete with parks, schools, and retail spaces—far more than basic barracks. This ambitious federal effort accommodated nearly 100,000 people, a fact that remains unfamiliar to many Americans today. As an urban planning expert, I recognize the significance of the United States Housing Corporation’s achievements during this crisis. Their thoughtful design mirrored the Garden City movement, promoting community engagement through homeownership. Ultimately, this brief historical moment exemplifies how government can effectively respond to urgent housing needs, a lesson relevant to today’s housing challenges.