From Can See to Can't: Texas Cotton Farmers on the Southern Prairies

This unique book offers an insider's view of Texas cotton farming in the late 1920s. Drawing on the memories of farmers and their descendants, many of whom are quoted here, the authors trace a year in the life of south central Texas cotton farms. From breaking ground to planting, cultivating, and harvesting, they describe the typical tasks of farm families - as well as their houses, food and clothing; the farm animals they depended on; their communities; and the holidays, activities, and observances that offered the farmers respite from hard work. Although cotton farming still goes on in Texas, the lifeways described here have nearly vanished as the state has become highly urbanized. Thus, this book preserves a fascinating record of an important part of Texas' rural heritage.