20th Century Cultural Framing of the Schnell Family in Columbus, Ohio

This report provides cultural framing for the 20th century Schnell family of Gahanna (Columbus), Ohio in the United States. A historical context is detailed whereby elements and dynamics associated with family life are conveyed. A wide range of variables, associated with family life of that period, are listed and illustrated. The reader can see how a period in time is captured and, from this depiction, gain an understanding for how the evolving American culture offers a myriad of sociological factors for consideration having to do with various social institutions. Such social institutions include, but are not limited to, the family, church, education, community, politics, death, marriage, gender roles, sexuality and, ultimately, what it means to be human. During the period of analysis, the community of Gahanna, Ohio evolves from isolated small town to thriving suburb of Columbus. This evolution played out in similar fashion, with other small towns, across the United States during the 20th century. The life of the author is used as illustration for representative reporting.