The Home Acre

by Edward Payson Roe

"The Home Acre" by Edward Payson Roe is a practical guidebook on rural homesteading, likely written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the cultivation and improvement of a one-acre home, focusing on the responsibilities and joys of gardening, tree-planting, and creating a fruitful and beautiful living space. Roe discusses the various aspects of planting and maintaining fruit trees, gardens, and landscaping that provide both aesthetic pleasure and sustenance, reflecting a deep appreciation for nature and the rural lifestyle. The beginning of "The Home Acre" introduces the concept of land hunger, emphasizing the psychological and physical need for a connection to nature. Roe encourages readers to create a country home where they can cultivate plants and trees, thus improving their well-being and quality of life. He offers practical insights into the initial steps of tree-planting, from choosing the right location and preparing the soil to selecting the types of trees and their spacing for optimal growth. The text suggests a gradual approach to land development, affirming that becoming intimately familiar with one’s acre can lead to personal satisfaction and a strong sense of accomplishment.