Bums Need to Start Living Like Hobos

In August of 1898 in downtown Chicago the annual Convention Congress of the Hobos of America met to create the Hobo Code. The hobo code was a lifestyle guide for hobos around the country. Hobos wanted to differentiate themselves from bums. For one, bums begged, hobos were looking for work. Hobos wanted to be treated differently then bums, and many of the rules they created had to do with respect, pride, and giving hobos a good reputation. Rule number four states “Always try to find work, even if temporary, and always seek out jobs nobody wants. By doing so you not only help a business along, but insure employment should you return to that town again.”(Hobo Code) In addition, rule number 5 states, “When no employment is available, make your own work by using your added talents at crafts.”(Hobo Code) Hobos had a real sense of pride in their lifestyle. They were on the road to look for work, not handouts. During the great depression, even the poorest of men wore suits, and they did their best to stay clean and shaven. Rule number ten: “Try to stay clean, and boil up wherever possible.” (Hobo Code) Hobo Symbols I do not think I have ever encountered a true hobo. Walking around New York I have just seen bums. The bums I see stay within the same five-block radius. I would hardly call that traveling around. As far as I can tell, they are not looking for work. They instead are just asking for money. In fact, in many cases they are sitting, not even asking for money. They just have a sign that states their reason for being a bum, and the request for money. “Ninjas killed my family. Need money for karate lessons.” Most of them are frequently drunk. All of these characteristics completely goes against the Hobo Code. Rule number 6: “Do not allow yourself to become a stupid drunk and set a bad example for locals treatment of other hobos.”(Hobo Code) Many people don’t like giving money to bums because of the fear they will just spend it on alcohol. Maybe if bums acted more like hobos they would get more money, but don’t think the bums in New York have the same pride as the hobos did. When walking down the street I rarely give money to bums. If they followed the Hobo Code, and they had more hobo characteristics, I think I would be more willing to give them money. I do not mind helping people who want to help themselves. If they had been going from city to city looking for work, I would be happy to buy them a steak. Maybe I could even hear an interesting story of the hobos travels. Bums better start living like hobos.