| How to Plow with Draft Horses by Ralph Rice When I decided to learn to plow, I had a hard time finding out how or where to begin. I was fortunate to have many old horse farmers in my circle of friends, some of whom cut their teeth on plow handles. They know a lot about plowing and many other things, too. They were and still are an invaluable resource. I have asked these men questions and they have shown me things that parallel the answers to the universe. Well, at least my universe. I learned to plow behind the barn, where not many could see. It was a good thing, too, because my first attempts were better left hidden. With persistence and good teaching I finally learned to plow [see Rite of Passage]. In later years, I competed in plowing contests against my former teachers. Many times I finished ahead of some of them, and once managed to come out on top of them all. I would like to pass along some of what I have learned in the field, using a 12" Oliver 504 right-hand walking plow. I keep it always under cover with the moldboard and jointer lightly oiled or greased to protect it from rust. My plow has a steel beam with wooden handles. I bought it from one of my mentors. I believe he was as glad that I have it as I was to get it.
Ralph Rice plows on his farm Riceland Meadows near Jefferson, Ohio. This article appeared in the Spring 2004 issue of Rural Heritage. |
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PO Box 2067, Cedar Rapids IA 52406-2067 E-Mail: |
02 September 2004
