Introduction:
The below timeline not only displays the series of events leading to the subdivision, but also depicts the trends that drove this farm and many other small farms to subdivide and downsize. Notice the decreasing number of farms, farmland, especially woodland and wooded cropland (specific to this case study), but the average size of farms increase. This points to the commercialization of the industry. The timeline also depicts population trends, income trends in the township, pointing to urbanization development.
The purpose of the timeline is to put the very narrow case study in conversation with the trends in the township, state, and even nationwide. By also logging significant data from broader sample sizes, the correlation turns to causation as the data becomes more compelling. All the factors listed put pressure on small farms, making it harder for them to compete and thrive.
Seeing data compiled in both the StoryMap and timeline together proves the lifestyle of this small farm owned by Emmett and Eunice, as well as many across the nation live much more than a “quaint” lifestyle. These factors greatly complicate what it means to be a successful small farmer in America in the late 1970s. The stigma surrounding small farms in America patronizes the difficult lifestyle, and reduces the difficulties they have survived. A deeper understanding of the background of small farms leads to a greater appreciation of those existing.
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