Our Farm of Four Acres and the Money We Made by It

by Miss Coulton

"Our Farm of Four Acres and the Money We Made by It" by Miss Coulton is a practical manual about domestic farming written in the mid-19th century. The work chronicles the author's experiences managing a small farm, covering a range of agricultural activities and household management with an emphasis on self-sufficiency. It provides insights into raising livestock, producing dairy products, and cultivating a kitchen garden, all while reflecting on the economic benefits of a rural lifestyle compared to urban living. At the start of the narrative, the author recounts the process of relocating from London to find a suitable country home for her family, which includes her sister and six children. They face challenges in securing a property that meets their needs within their budget, leading to humorous and often frustrating encounters with various landlords and estate agents. Eventually, they succeed in finding an old-fashioned house with sufficient land for their dairy and farming aspirations. This opening section sets the stage for the author to explore the trials of managing their farm, including bovine care and butter-making, giving readers a glimpse of the domestic life and economic activities that defines their rural experience.