A hobo is a migrant worker or homeless vagrant.  The term originated in the U.S. around 1890.  Unlike a 'tramp', who works only when forced to, or a 'bum', who does not work at all, a "hobo" is a traveling worker.  The number of hobos increased during the Great Depression era of the 1930's.  With no work and no prospects at home, many decided to travel the freight trains in pursuit of work in other parts of the country.  

The story "The Exploits of Henri, a Hobo" presented in this episode was written by Rich Rybicki from the Eaton County Historical Commission, and it is a depiction of historical events and places from this period when there were prevalant hobos in Michigan.

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