The DVD "Farming Down the Years" was one of John
Thompson's first productions about farming methods employed in
Ireland. This DVD tells the story of how the farmer had to
adapt with the new machinery coming on the farm and the rapid growth
at which farming was changing. The days of farming by horse
were on the way out an a new ere of Irish Farming had begun
For the small farmer the 1950's
were difficult years. Money was scarce and farming was beginning to
move into a new gear. The tractor by now had almost completely taken
over from the horse and farming men were starting to realise that
they had to move with the times.
This film, based on 1955, looks at
the Irish corn harvest and the changes that were taking place at that time.
Tommy Doherty had just bought a 1939 Fordson for £50 and he explains
the difficulties of starting farm contract work. A 16 hour day was
then not uncommon. vintage enthusiasts like Tommy, his neighbours
Michael McNamee and Willie Turner take us through the complete
season of the corn harvest.
With so much vintage farm machinery on
display, the now almost forgotten sounds of the corncrake and the
cuckoo, this film should bring back many memories for the older
generation and give a good insight to the younger people who do not
remember those hard working but happy days a generation ago.
This DVD Farming down the years is now available
to buy online or by contacting John Thompson
