West Brookfield Farmers Market

The following excerpts taken From The Old Farmer’s Almanac by Robert B. Thomas, No. 86, 1860.

Then honor him who tills the soil,As well as those who rear our domes; For both leave monuments of toil Which point to many happy homes.

 
Sound Advice:

An agricultural writer of respute says, “ August is the best time for ploughing and seeding down such mowing lands as need re-seeding. *** From the 10^th of August to Sept. 20^th is appropriate time for this work.There can be no doubt that this is the best way to resuscitate worn out grasslands, but it is important that it be done in season.Flint, in his treatise on Grasses and Forage Plants, says “The most important point to be observed, is to use a large number of species of grasses, with smaller quantities of each than those most commonly used.This is Nature’s rule; for in examining the turf of a rich old pasture we shall find a large number of different species growing together.”

The Gardens of New England, by Elihu Burritt

The farmer’s garden is the introduction to a large volume, of which every acre is a page, bearing the marks of his character.Viewed in this light, the gardens of New England are full of hopeful and instructive reading to those who consult their chronicles.They show that science, taste and successful industry, have been brought to bear upon agriculture.They mark the degree of mental culture and refinement to which the farmers of the country have attained.

With summer in full swing, markets all over the state are loaded with delicious fruits and berries.  Blueberry season is almost over, ending a bit soon due to the hot weather and early crop production but blackberries, peaches and early apples are everywhere!  Here is a simple recipe that is great for both peaches and apples.  Enjoy this family favorite from my kitchen to yours.

Peach (or Apple) Cobbler

Butter an 8 in. square pan.  Cover the bottom with peeled and sliced peaces (about 6 or 7).  Sprinkle 1/2 to 1 cup sugar over the peaches (depending on their sweetness) and gently toss.  In a separate bowl, mix together 1 c. flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 egg, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1 tsp. baking powder until crumbly (hand mixing works the best).  Place on top of peaches and dot the top with ample amounts of butter.  Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour until golden brown.