As the news of the virus and a down turn of our economy
is reported with increasingly depressing predictions, it would be wise to
revisit the past for instructions on how to proceed. With the onset of both
World War I and II, the nation was required to tighten their collective belt and
a program of rationing was initiated. When my father was stationed at the
Pentagon his letters to his parents speak of his offer to send them his coffee
and sugar vouchers so shortages were a daily reality.
In 1917
and then again in 1941, the Agriculture Department informed the American public
if they wanted fresh fruits and vegetables, they would have to grow their own.
With that edict, the concept of the Victory Garden was born and many people who
did not know a trowel from a hoe began to garden. To aid in the effort, the War
Garden Commission compiled instruction booklets which were distributed by the
Department of Agriculture, International Harvester, and Beech-Nut.
From the
efforts of individuals America was transformed. Over forty percent of all vegetables
consumed nationally were produced from small scale gardens. Back yards,
apartment building roof tops, and vacant lots became gardens and individuals
felt they were contributing in a patriotic sense. From the World War II data,
it was estimated these ‘Sunday farmers’ had created over 20 million victory
gardens and added eight to ten million tons of food for consumption here at
home.
Oddly
since the turn of the century, many large cities have begun to reinstate the
premise. In San Francisco the “Victory Garden Project 2008” was created and
built on the aforementioned premise with the term ‘victory’ redefined to mean
urban sustainability. Growing food at home for health benefits, security, and
reduction of the food miles associated with the transport of produce makes
logical sense.
With our
country at war, the loss of many retirement funds, and the word ‘recession’
being tossed about, perhaps now is the time for us to remember who we are! Even
though we are a rural community and famous for our self-sufficiency many of the
younger generation need to be encouraged. By growing food, one may save money
by not having to buy at inflated prices and be assured of quality. The message
that will be sent is that in a time of uncertainty we will find an advantageous
use of our time and efforts. Resourceful hard work and voluntary simplicity are
our honored traditions and must not be lost.