Farming for Boys

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Introducing “Farming for Boys,” by Edmund Morris.  Revised and edited by Tim Kinnard.

In the heart of New Jersey, not far from the busy city of Trenton, there nestles an old farm—a place where time moves at a leisurely pace, and the soil holds secrets echoing the whispers of generations past. This farm is entrusted to the care of Philip Spangler, a hardworking man whose commendable efforts are overshadowed by a lack of formal training and education in matters of agriculture. Consequently, his farm’s growth is stifled, a reflection of his own shortcomings, and this hinders the development of the young boys under his care who need guidance in their own journey to responsible manhood.

However, a ray of hope emerges in the form of Uncle Benny, a distant relative around seventy years old, who descends upon the Spangler farm like a harbinger of change. Unlike Mr. Spangler, Uncle Benny possesses a wealth of knowledge acquired through extensive travel and education, and he is remarkably skilled with tools. Armed with the wisdom of years and a heart overflowing with love, he comprehends the intricacies of farm management and the emotional needs of young boys. More than just a farmer, Uncle Benny is a man of conviction, possessing a moral compass firmly grounded in biblical principles.

Uncle Benny’s presence proves transformative. His voice, gentle and reassuring, becomes the guiding star for the neglected Spangler boys. He imparts essential life lessons, offers small yet meaningful gifts, provides guidance, and when necessary, administers reprimands. He instills in the Spangler boys a fresh perspective on labor and leisure, a viewpoint they eagerly share with their previously bewildered father. Together, under the sagacious guidance of Uncle Benny, they embark on a journey toward a life filled with fulfillment and purpose.

“Farming for Boys” by Edmund Morris stands as one of the earliest American texts to underscore the pivotal role of mentorship in shaping young boys’ lives. It is a tribute to enduring values like work ethic, homesteading, and the passage from boyhood to manhood during an era characterized by changing societal norms concerning gender and class..

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