Plowman
Plow one acre behind Bartholomew, a patient ox. The field will be planted either way. The blisters, and the bread at noon, are entirely yours.
c. 4000 BC – AD 1920About the role
For six thousand years, most people who ever lived worked the land. Plowing was the hardest part: walking all day behind an animal with its own opinions, turning the soil one furrow at a time.
At Hollow Lane Farm, you'll partner with Bartholomew, an ox of great experience and limited enthusiasm. Together you'll turn one acre over a spring season. You will be tired. You will eat very well.
What you'll do
- Harness Bartholomew at dawn, with his consent.
- Walk a straight furrow, then another one beside it, until the acre is done.
- Clear stones from the field and add them to the wall, as farmers always have.
- Stop for bread, cheese and cider at noon, under the oak.
- Bring Bartholomew in at dusk and tell him he did well.
What we're looking for
- Good boots and a strong back.
- A calm voice. Oxen respond to tone.
- Tolerance for mud, weather and early mornings.
- No experience needed. Bartholomew has plenty.
Perks
- Bread at noonBaked that morning from last year's harvest.
- Fresh airAn acre of it, every day, whatever the weather.
- BartholomewA patient ox and an excellent listener. He will not remember your name.
