SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR CITY PERSONS 

 WHO DESIRE TO FARM 



By Professor G. F. Warren, Cornell University 

 (From Circular No. 24, College of Agriculture, Cornell University) 



THIS circular is. prepared to make a few suggestions to the 

 considerable number of inexperienced persons who are mak- 

 ing farm investments. For a number of years large numbers of 

 such persons have been writing to the College of Agriculture for 

 advice. It is not often possible, in the limits of a letter, to fully 

 answer the questions asked, nor will it be possible in a circular, 

 but a few of the more common questions and mistakes may be 

 discussed. The writer is well aware that the facts and opinions 

 here presented are not popular, but he believes that if carefully 

 considered they may save many misfortunes that are sometimes 

 tragedies. It is not the purpose of this circular to persuade any- 

 one to farm or not to farm. The aim is to give a better under- 

 standing of what may be expected from a farm, and to suggest the 

 safer ways of procedure for* those who are starting farming. The 

 facts here presented are based on records of large numbers of farms. 

 Profits to be expected in farming. Farming is a very con- 

 servative business and, like all conservative enterprises, it gives 

 conservative returns. Compared with large city enterprises, farm- 

 ing is a very small business and, like other small enterprises, too 

 much should not be expected from it. It is a very complicated 

 business and requires considerable experience for success. For 

 one who knows how to farm, it offers a wholesome living and a 

 modest profit. 



In the best townships in Jefferson County, in a year fully as 

 good as the average, the average farmer and his family with a 

 capital of $9006 made $1155 above the business expenses of the 



