Twice this week I have been reminded about gardens, farmers’ markets and community. I am reading the book, Home Fires, by Julie Summers. Summers has researched and described the work of the Women’s Institute during World War II.
Women in villages and towns throughout England formed groups to take care of the home front during the war. They shared information for successful gardens, participated in markets, sewed and knitted. The women found community during a very difficult time.
I was interested to learn that when medications were in short supply, the women gathered herbs. The herbs were collected by a plant physiologist for drying and then sent to pharmaceuticals. The herbs included foxglove (digitalis), belladonna and rosehips (for vitamin C).
Throughout the book there are interviews with women who recalled going to Women’s Institute meetings with their mother.
Yesterday I watched a fascinating interview with an Amish man who talked about homesteading, gardens and community. He gave some of the history of the Amish and explained their goal of self-sufficient communities. The interview is with John Miller who will host a conference, Food Independence Summit: Seed to Spoon. You can see the interview HERE at minute 50:25. You can also find out more information about the summit in Ohio HERE.
I am inspired to work on my garden and find ways to share. I am looking forward to going to the farmer’s market in my community tomorrow.
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Amen!