Born to Farm sheds light upon the enormous changes that have taken
place in farming over the past 90 years, as seen through the eyes
of one of the participants. It is an absorbing and fascinating
autobiography; the author's enthusiasm and quest for knowledge, his
ingenuity and practical skills, have enabled him to keep abreast of
changes in the wider world while building up the family farming
enterprise in Suffolk. The author's early memories of the 1930s and
of his school days, evoke a bygone era in the countryside and on
the farm. Lifelong learning is a theme which runs through the book.
Opportunities for learning and travel through the Young Farmers'
Club, for example, are described with humour and give an insight
into farming both in the UK and the USA during the 1950s. Back on
Red House Farm, David Black deals with everyday challenges as he
progresses from dogsbody to decision-maker. Problem-solving is part
of a farmer's life and no aspect of the business escapes his steady
hand and scrutiny. Gradually, the huge variety of crops grown is
streamlined but not before we've learned about harnessing horses
and draining the land, about virus-free strawberry plants and
fields of tulips and peonies, of cocksfoot and fescue. Pigs are an
important aspect of the family business and the evolution of
suitable feed mixes, pig housing, breeding and outdoor rearing,
integrated with cereal production and milling on the farm, makes
compelling reading. Changes to field sizes and to farm buildings
and the provision of housing for farm workers are all covered, with
many interesting anecdotes. The value of sharing knowledge and of
co-operation with other farmers - both formally and informally - is
made apparent. The author is full of admiration for the
contributions of others, but modest about his own considerable
achievements. Hard work, encouragement of others, and a 'can do'
attitude summarise his approach. Family life is explored and
glimpses into village life provide an interesting social history of
the period. Working alongside family members has its own rewards
and challenges and the journey has begun along the path to secure a
way forward for future generations.
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