2-History-Early Years
The Early Years (1925-1929)
From its inception, research at the farm served two fundamental purposes: to discover more effective farming methods in western Kentucky and to demonstrate these methods to farmers throughout the region.
Initial work focused on land reclamation, soil fertility improvements, and construction. Early crop research compared yields of corn, wheat, oats, and hay using soil amendments and crop rotation. Research on dark tobacco investigated various fertilizer treatments on yield, quality and variety performance. Horticulture research began on apples, peaches, strawberries, raspberries, and tomatoes.
A small Jersey dairy herd was established in the first year, with a focus on improving feed production capacities and utilizing legumes. Poultry research revolved around diet and egg production.
Beginning in 1929, beef research measured the average yearly gains of steers grazing pasture. This stream of research lasted through at least 1948 and provided a strong impetus for soil fertility management of Western Kentucky pastures according to soil type. Their research showed that average daily gains could be improved by three and a half times on improved pastures compared with unimproved pastures. As a result of this demonstration alone, hundreds of thousands of acres of poor pastureland were improved, leading to a thriving livestock industry in the region.
The annual field days began in 1927. The first soil and crops field day had more than 800 attendees and attracted 1200 the following year.
Station Milestones
1925
- An additional 60 acres were purchased, called the Jacob tract. The farm covers 460 acres.
- An electric line was extended (~ 1 1/4 miles) from Princeton to supply electricity.
1926
- Horticultural research began with the planting of 320 peach trees and 120 apple trees.
- A dark tobacco barn was built.
1927
- Threshing machine bought.
- Two poultry brooder houses were built.
- Five wells were drilled in 1925-26, but they did not supply adequate water. A 3-inch water main line was installed from the City of Princeton to the Substation to supply water.
1928
- The farm's total acreage is 517, with an additional 57 acres purchased (O’Hara and Luttrell tracts).
- Stock barn is constructed.
- 660 peach trees planted for horticulture projects.
1929
- Turkeys and beef cattle are introduced to the farm for research.
Wheat threshing in 1927.
