POWER AND THE LAND Reel 1 · Part 1

Description

Documentary: Portrays a farm family from St. Clairsville, Ohio who are members of an REA co-operative, and contrasts their life before and after electrification. Reel 1: Chores such as milking cows, chopping wood and pumping water begin at dawn in near darkness and without benefit of modern conveniences. The dairy rejects milk that has soured due to lack of refrigeration. Reel 2: More difficult tasks are done "the old way--the hard way" without electrical power. Explains that 75% of American farms are "left in the dark" because supplying power to rural areas is unprofitable. Reel 3: Agricultural co-operation is illustrated through a corn cutting scene set to music and poetry. Farmers meet with a county agent who explains the work of the REA and the need to form co-operatives. Electrical lines are constructed and the family begins to enjoy new conveniences. Reel 4: The family listens to the radio and finds their work made easier with running water, a power saw, washing machine, iron and other appliances. Explains that these improvements were the result of neighbors working together.

Collection

Records of the Office of the Secretary of Agriculture

Series

Public Information and Training Motion Picture and Television Productions