The Homesteader's Handbook

This book is an absolutely charming compilation of articles taken from 1840s-1860s issues of the AMERICAN AGRICULTURIST, the foremost farming publication of its time. Within these pages is common sense, down-to-earth information presented in the respectful, almost poetic language of a bygone era. Plant it, raise it, harvest it, then put it by for the winter. Covers all aspects of home and barn building and upkeep, livestock raising, crop care, fencing, plowing methods, vegetable and flower gardening, plus such asides as how to harvest ice, how to smoke and cure meat, how to capture rainwater for home use, and much much more. All hints and methods are perfectly applicable to this day and age, especially for those who wish to simplify or simply make do. Articles are arranged in a monthly format, from January thru December. Thickly illustrated with lithographs and woodcuts of the era. A fascinating, educational glimpse into the past that's really worth a look.