
07/10/2025
In 1940, a farmer in Grundy County, Iowa, is captured operating a plow and harrowing with a team of horses. The scene paints a vivid picture of the agricultural life that remained deeply rooted in tradition during the early 20th century. While mechanization was slowly beginning to make inroads, many farmers still relied on the strength and endurance of horses for tasks like plowing fields and preparing the soil for planting. The steady rhythm of the horses' movements and the farmer's skilled handling of the plow reflect the hard work and determination required to cultivate the land. This photograph not only showcases the tools of the trade at the time but also serves as a reminder of the deep connection between the land and those who worked it, especially in rural Iowa, where agriculture was central to both the economy and way of life.