In the year 1940, against the backdrop of a world on the brink of global conflict, a young man named Frank Vince emerged as a symbol of American diversity and resilience. Born on January 8, 1923, in Columbus, Ohio, Frank Vince embodied the spirit of a first-generation American, poised to contribute to the unfolding history of his nation.
Ypsilanti, Michigan: A Home and a Haven
In 1940, Frank Vince called Ypsilanti, Michigan, home. This charming city, nestled in the southeastern part of the state, bore witness to a diverse tapestry of American life. Its history was deeply woven with stories of immigrants who, like Frank’s family, sought opportunity and a better life in the United States.
On April 9, 1940, when the census enumerator visited the Vince household, he captured a snapshot of this pivotal moment in time. Frank resided there with his parents, John and Anna Vince, who hailed from the Transylvania region of Hungary, which is now part of Romania. Anna was born in Soros, Hungary, and John in Dombo, Hungary.
A Glimpse into the Vince Household
The Vince family lived at 523 Oak Street in Ypsilanti, where they paid a modest monthly rent of $15. The 1940 census documented that they had lived in a rural area in 1935, highlighting the shifts in American life as rural communities gave way to urbanization.
Frank’s father, John Vince, aged 49, had received four years of formal education and worked as a laborer at a Stove Works. He diligently clocked 40 hours of work during the week of March 24-30, 1940, and in 1939, he had worked for a total of 17 weeks, earning an annual salary of $280. His naturalization status in 1940 was “first papers,” signifying his journey toward becoming an American citizen.
Anna Vince, aged 47, had not received formal schooling. Their family was a testament to the hardworking immigrant communities that contributed to the growth of American industry and society.
Frank Vince, at 17 years old, had completed two years of high school, representing the hopes and dreams of his parents for a brighter future. His younger siblings, Betty, 15, and Robert, 7, were also on their educational journeys.
Answering the Call of Duty
Frank Vince’s story continued beyond 1940. On January 7, 1943, he embarked on a new chapter in his life when he enlisted in the military. His service took him to the battlefields of France, where he served as an airplane mechanic. Frank’s dedication and bravery, like that of countless others during World War II, contributed to the defense of freedom and democracy.
Frank Vince’s life in 1940, captured in black and white, tells a story of immigration, hard work, and the pursuit of the American dream. It serves as a reminder of the diverse and resilient individuals who, during pivotal moments in history, shaped the nation we know today. His legacy lives on as a testament to the strength and determination of those who came before us.
