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Isa27-page instructional pamphlet written byAlva Ellisandpublished in1944to assist Americans in growing their ownfood during World War II. The guide was based on Ellis's 27 years of experienceas a supervisor at the "State Farm" for the State Prison of SouthernMichigan in Jackson, where he was renowned for his heavy crop yields andaward-winning produce.
Content and Practical Advice
Accordingto theNational Agricultural Library, the guide provides specificdata for each vegetable item included. For every crop, Ellis details:
- Planting Information: Specific "Planting Dates" and instructions on "How to Plant" to ensure successful growth.
- Maintenance: Guidelines for "Proper Care" and methods for "Insects and Their Control".
- Garden Planning: Data on the ideal garden size based on family size. For example, Ellis recommends a25'x50' plotfor a family of two, and a50'x100' plotfor a family of three or four.
- Food Preservation: Recommendations for canning, suggesting that households should plan to put up85 to 115 quartsof vegetables per family member for a season.
- Nutritional Strategy: A curated list of crops that require the least effort to raise while providing the highest nutritional value.
Historical Context
Publishedduring the peak of the"Food for Freedom"program,this guide was part of a massive national effort to reduce the burden on thecommercial food supply.
- Production Goals: The USDA set a goal of22 million Victory Gardensfor 1944.
- Impact: By 1944, home gardens were responsible for producing approximately40% of all vegetablesconsumed in the United States.
- Purpose: These gardens freed up commercial agricultural resources, packaging, and transportation for the armed forces and Allies.
This manual is an enhanced print from the original manual which was a mess.
The pages were cleaned and the images were enhanced for detail.
This is a VERY NICE copy.
20 pages 8.5x11" Comb Bound with Cardstock Covers
