Take one look at the charming vintage farm life photos from the early 1900s below and you'll instantly feel transported to a simpler time in history.
Of course, saying it was "simple" doesn't mean folks in rural areas weren't hard workers. In fact, as you can see from the kiddos in the pictures, they were forced to have a strong work ethic from the time they were able to walk and therefore always chipped in with chores.
It's something I learned from my own mother, who would tell me stories about growing up on her family's farm in the 1950s and '60s (a much later period than that of these images). My favorite was when she told me about the names they would give their cattle: Mottle, Babe, Dream, Dot, Beautina, Teddy Bear, Roan, and Brown Cow, to name a few.
Take a glance below for a glimpse into what farm life was really like for those families back in the day.
Did you grow up on a farm? Do you remember moments like the ones below? Let us know in the comments and be sure to SHARE with your friends!
1. Threshing Machine
This giant mechanism looks a little terrifying to me, but it remains an essential tool for separating grain from plants on modern farms today.
2. Riding Cattle
Don't worry — it looks like Dad was crouched down for this photo from 1911, close by in case this hefty heifer decided to go rogue. But she seems pretty complacent to me.
3. Target Practice
Men and women alike took their turns hunting for fresh meat — and protecting their homestead.
4. Goofing Around
Of course, it wasn't all work and no play! This couple looks like they might have had a few sips of whatever is in the barrels before hopping on.
5. Outhouse Break
Indoor plumbing simply wasn't an option for many rural families. My mom even had to rely on an outhouse on her family's farm until the 1970s!
6. Feeding Chickens And Hens
This family clearly had a lot of eggs to go around — and sell at the market — with this many feathers flying around at meal time.
7. Baby In A Wheelbarrow
Looks like this little one wasn't too thrilled to be up early and helping her dad out, but at least she got to wear an adorable hat!
8. Tractor Ladies
Women clearly weren't afraid to roll up their sleeves, even when it came to heavy machinery.
9. Family Rides
When they weren't in school, youngsters were expected to saddle up for a long day's work right alongside the rest of the family.
This photo was stamped with a note saying, "Print by Piper + Taft Seattle," one of the biggest sporting goods stores in the early 1900s.
10. Kid Feeding A Kid
What a beautiful moment! I would have volunteered for this adorable task at this youngster's age too.
11. Hitching A Ride
Hopefully this billy goat has a good sense of direction with the kiddos in the back seat.
12. Chopping Wood
This tyke probably had to wait a few years before she could really get a good handle on that ax and help out with firewood, but it's cute to see her try. And obviously whoever snapped the photo is close by to make sure she doesn't hurt herself.
Please SHARE these photos of a simpler time with friends and family!
