
During World War II, hard-luck farmer Colvis Nevels leaves his rural Kentucky home to take a factory job in bustling Detroit. Reluctantly accompanying Colvis is his long-suffering wife, Gertie, a talented woodcarver set in her traditional ways. When the perils of city life and Colvis' reckless squandering of money send the Nevels into precarious financial straits, Gertie starts a business making hand-carved dolls in order to provide for her family.
Gertie Nevels

Clovis

Mamie

Sophronie
Max

Victor (as Bob Swan)

Mrs. Kendrick

Reuben
Enoch
Clytie
Amos
Cassie

Joe

Skyros

Miss Vashinski

Wheateye
Taxi Driver

Mr. Kendrick

Old John Miller
Bender
Mrs. Hull

Army Major

Soldier

Truck Driver

Mrs. Bomarita
Cooper (as Patrick Billingsley)

Irish Neighbor

Bubble Gum Boy
Mrs. Saito

School Girl (as Elizabeth Perez)
GIlbert
Jean-Claude
Mr. Daly (uncredited)