In 1934, the area around Pie Town opened up to homesteaders. For $3 a farmer could file on a quarter section of 160 acres. Many farmers from the dust bowl ended up in Pie Town. To prove up their claims, many farmers in the area specialized in growing pinto beans.

Noted documentary photographer Russell Lee, on assignment for the Farm Security Administration, visited Pie Town in 1940. Pie Town homesteaders gained immortality through the photographs he produced.

Folks pray before the 1940 annual Fair. Photo by Russell Lee.