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.
Sharing this post with the Five Minute Friday writing community, Grace and Truth, Senior Salon Pit Stop and Tuesdays with a Twist and also Sweet Tea and Friends .
Carol this sounds like something I’d definitely be interested in reading. WWII Historical Fiction is my favorite genre.
Thanks so much for sharing with Sweet Tea & Friends this month dear friend.
We will always need the creation the Lord made for us.
Sounds like an interesting book. I love that sense of community and even family–and the herb harvesting sounds fascinating. Visiting from the Senior Salon Pit Stop link party.
I am enjoying it. The Women’s Institute had a major role during WWII, hard work and community!
It is good to be reminded of the investment gardening requires. We can so take it all for granted. May we remember even to shop at small farm stands.
Amen!