(1929-1940)

Please provide political, economic and legislative information relevant to the play. 

For example, try researching local and national politics, WPA, unions, labor laws, factory work, The Great Depression, Gay Rights, The Dust Bowl

(1930-1940)

Please provide information about music, art, religion, literature and popular culture of the time and place.

For example:

What would the characters be reading, wearing or eating? 

What art was happening at the time AND what art would they actually have access to/be exposed to?

What songs would they be familiar with?

What would their hairstyles look like? 

What religion would they practice?

What religions may have been in the community at the time and place?

(1930-present)

Please provide information about Naomi Wallace’s life and experience, as well as information about the original and subsequent productions of “The Trestle at Pope Lick Creek” and other plays she’s written.

What was her inspiration to write this play?

How was the play received?

What comparisons did people make to other playwrights who came before her and why were those comparisons made?

How has her writing changed since this play was produced?

How has Wallace’s life shaped her writing throughout her career?

Are there other writers that took inspiration from her?

This Research Guide has been compiled to help you find a variety of resources to prepare your presentations on The Trestle at Pope Lick Creek. Here you will find a detailed bibliography of books, media, and online resources for each research group. 

Use the gray tabs above to open lists.

photo: SFGate