Home Canning Is Nearly Year-Round Chore in North Carolina, 1931

By Mrs. Leroy Ballard, Candler, N.C., published in the July 1931 issue of Farmers Federation News, Asheville, N.C.

The saying that “man works from sun to sun, but woman’s work is never done” is quite true when applied to home canning, for the industrious housewife knows that there are but few months in the year when there is not a surplus to can from the farm or home garden and it is the wise housewife who knows the value of canning this surplus for future and winter needs.

Beginning with the first three months of the year comes the canning of the farm meats. Beef, spareribs, sausage, and the spring fryers – all of which are so much enjoyed during the summer months when fresh meats are not so plentiful on the farm.

From early April on in season comes the canning of greens, strawberries, and later on all summer vegetables until frost.

Our women folks are learning more and better methods in home canning. Until now there is no reason why a well-balanced and enjoyable meal cannot be had at any time right from the farm home pantry with but little cost. And with the splendid help of our home demonstrators and bulletins, those who have hesitated or made failures with the canning of the more difficult meats and vegetables, need not do so any more for with a reasonable amount of care in preparation and process, success is sure. This does not mean that it is necessary to have a certain kind of expensive canning outfit; in fact, some of the most successful canners use only the hot water bath process. While the steam pressure cooker is to be much more desired not only for its surety in canning but for its combined uses in the preparation of foods, it is not necessary for successful canning.

The right method, sterilization and care are the three most essential points for sure canning; and this year, while there is an abundance of all kinds of fruits and garden surplus, every housewife should see that ll is taken care of. Plenty for ourselves and a few cans extra for probably some less fortunate one next winter.

So let’s can a can every day, thus keeping poverty away.