National Hobo Convention

I don't usually read USA today but was given a copy on the weekend. I can not help myself, I read nearly everything that crosses my path! Well, here is interesting news. The National Hobo Convention, held annually since 1900 in Britt, Iowa, population 2,052 held its 110 convention this past weekend. www.brittiowa.com/hobo/index.htm is certainly a record to be noted.
Britt, Iowa has defined Hobos as migratory persons willing to work any task for the daily goal of "three hots and a cot" (three meals and a place to sleep). Tramps beg for handouts and Bums are too lazy to roam and never work.
Hobos generally are traced to the post-Civil War years. Many veterans hopped cars on freight trains to try to find work. Railroad companies discouraged this, but most were tolerant.
Now fewer hobos rider the rails. Some hitchhike. Some make long bike rides. Some even have their own wheels.
Britt's Hobo Foundation offers shelter with showers. Fun and games. Free food and drink. Mulligan stew is a staple.
On Saturday, the annual Hobo King and Queen were crowned.
Interesting that this culture has survived so long.