If You're Going to Live in the Country

by Thomas H. (Thomas Hamilton) Ormsbee

"If You're Going to Live in the Country" by Thomas H. Ormsbee and Richmond Huntley is a practical guide written in the late 1930s. This book offers insights and advice aimed at urban dwellers contemplating a move to rural life, outlining the benefits and challenges associated with such a transition. The authors reflect on the allure of country living while providing realistic considerations for families looking to make the shift. The opening of the book sets a nostalgic tone as the authors share personal anecdotes about their experiences growing up in cities and dreaming of life in the country. They discuss the motivations for seeking a rural lifestyle, highlighting the appeal of space, tranquility, and a connection to nature. The narrative emphasizes how the pressures of city life can prompt individuals to seek out peaceful surroundings, and it introduces the various challenges city dwellers may face in adapting to country living, including practical issues related to property maintenance and community integration. Overall, the authors aim to prepare potential country residents for the realities they will encounter in their quest for a quieter, more fulfilling life.