Delmo Housing Corporation Records (WUA00107), 1945-1989 | WUA University Archives

The Delmo Housing Corporation was formed in 1945 when ten Farm Security Administration communities were being sold.  In order to prevent these homes from being sold to commercial interests with a resulting loss of migrant housing, a group of concerned people came together as the Delmo Housing Corporation, a charitable and educational corporation.  Among the founding members were Bishop William Scarlett, Henry V. Putzel, Edwin P. Coleman, Jr., Oliver M. Langenberg, and Rev. Charles C. Wilson.  They raised some of the down payment money and collected small down payments from the occupants of the homes, and were able to purchase nine of the communities (in 1954 an additional village was added).  These homes were then purchased by the tenants at modest prices, allowing them to become homeowners, often for the first time.

In each village a community center, village council and women's club was developed, and some villages also have thrift shops where donated items are sold, with profits generally going to community improvements. Programs and assistance for residents included adult education, health education, high school scholarships, college loans, and special loans and grants.  Many churches sent young members to Delmo on work camps, and these high school and college students helped renovate buildings, create playgrounds, and other such projects.  From the start the communities were encouraged to be self-governed, maintaining their own community land and buildings and making the decisions on community improvements. Health services for residents were developed, including the Migrant Health Services and the Family Health Services.  In 1995 Delmo celebrated its 50th year.  The Corporation, once based in St. Louis, is now based in the Bootheel, but still has many active St. Louisans.