The Yard Wives' Secret Feasts

In the 1970s, sisters-in-law Lynne Sterling and Wren Sterling put on a coordinated act. They screamed at each other publicly, but secretly exchanged food. Their quarrels covered making fine grains and cakes, sold on the Black Market for food stamps. Their husbands became accomplices, keeping watch. Even the mother-in-law protected them, shouting at neighbors. Lavish feasts behind closed doors protected the compound from outside tension and fear.