Born to Farm sheds light upon the enormous changes that have taken
place in farming over the past 90 years, as seen through the eyes of one
of the participants. It is an absorbing and fascinating autobiography;
the author's enthusiasm and quest for knowledge, his ingenuity and
practical skills, have enabled him to keep abreast of changes in the
wider world while building up the family farming enterprise in Suffolk.
The author's early memories of the 1930s and of his school days, evoke a
bygone era in the countryside and on the farm. Lifelong learning is a
theme which runs through the book. Opportunities for learning and travel
through the Young Farmers' Club, for example, are described with humour
and give an insight into farming both in the UK and the USA during the
1950s.
Back on Red House Farm, David Black deals with everyday challenges as he
progresses from dogsbody to decision-maker. Problem-solving is part of a
farmer's life and no aspect of the business escapes his steady hand and
scrutiny. Gradually, the huge variety of crops grown is streamlined but
not before we've learned about harnessing horses and draining the land,
about virus-free strawberry plants and fields of tulips and peonies, of
cocksfoot and fescue.
Pigs are an important aspect of the family business and the evolution of
suitable feed mixes, pig housing, breeding and outdoor rearing,
integrated with cereal production and milling on the farm, makes
compelling reading. Changes to field sizes and to farm buildings and the
provision of housing for farm workers are all covered, with many
interesting anecdotes.
The value of sharing knowledge and of co-operation with other farmers -
both formally and informally - is made apparent. The author is full of
admiration for the contributions of others, but modest about his own
considerable achievements. Hard work, encouragement of others, and a
'can do' attitude summarise his approach.
Family life is explored and glimpses into village life provide an
interesting social history of the period. Working alongside family
members has its own rewards and challenges and the journey has begun
along the path to secure a way forward for future generations.
