Tillers of the Soil

Spanning generations of one American family, this episode traces the evolution of farming from hand-cleared colonial fields to the vast, mechanized agriculture of the Midwest. Beginning in 18th-century Massachusetts, the story follows pioneers who wrest crops from stubborn land, learn from Native farming methods, and adopt new tools—from gunpowder to experimental machinery—to increase yields. As descendants move westward, innovations like Cyrus McCormick’s reaper, agricultural colleges, and scientific experimentation transform farming into both a business and a science. The episode ultimately celebrates the American farmer’s resilience, adaptability, and central role in the nation’s progress. Originally aired: May 13, 1936. Cast: Narrator, Dramatic Ensemble Tags: CavalcadeOfAmerica, AmericanHistory, farming, agriculture, westwardExpansion, innovation, mechanization, CyrusMcCormick, HomesteadAct, ruralLife, dramatizedhistory, classicradio, DuPont, 18thCentury, 19thCentury, perseverance