15 July 1930

Hi, my name is Meaghan! I am a 21 year old University of Michigan student.  I am starting this blog as I begin my journey overseas to escape Michigan's and the United State's depression as well as fulfilling my past Great Aunt Gladis's dying wish!  Aunt Gladis passed away a few months ago.  And a few weeks ago, her lawyer showed up at my doorstep with her Will, telling me that I have inherited a large sum of money that Aunt Gladis left for me.  And so, my journey begins!
As I sit here aboard the SS Leviathan, a Transatlantic ship off to London, England, I ponder my thoughts on what has occurred in the past few weeks.  My Great Aunt Gladis passed away, and I was left a large sum of money from her Will.  I am still shocked and in a state of disbelief that I have inherited such a large some of money, while everyone is suffering and counting up every coin they have.  Aunt Gladis and I had always wanted to travel overseas and explore the vast land of Europe.  This trip that I am embarking on will be in memory and in honour of Aunt Gladis, her hopes and her dreams!
Before I ever considered this adventure, I only had a few Sawbucks and Lincolns in my pocket.  I am very grateful and blessed to have inherited money which will enable me to pursue my dreams and do what I love.  But most importantly, find a way to escape this Great Depression, and survive this economic downturn.
I look at this trip not only as an adventure but as an escape.  The United States is suffering a terrible Depression due to the Stock Market crash of 1929 which has turned our country upside down, and living conditions here in Michigan are deplorable. 
Depression is everywhere I turn.  Neighbours on both sides of me have had their houses repossessed by the bank and foreclosed.  4,340,000 people are unemployed and the numbers keep escalating.  Men are lined up with their families just to get a bowl of soup to feed their children and attempt to provide a decent living for their family.  The scenes are devastating and it is time to start recovering.
Until then, I will be in Europe where conditions are livable and I will take Aunt Gladis along in memory for a long awaited journey!