Program Outline

Segment One

The Alderson's year long story begins in winter. We learn of the winter tasks that occur on the farm and see the close-knit relationships of the small planter family and their two hired slaves. As spring approaches, Samuel, the seasoned slave, instructs Jacob, the newly hired slave, about the workload and Mr. Alderson's expectations.

Speak with Mr. and Mrs. Alderson and our 21st-century historian.

Segment Two

It is the heat of July and the tobacco plants are being topped. We see the two Alderson boys tending to the fields. The older boy, Robert, is cultivating while William spends his first full planting season pulling and destroying worms from the plants. We learn that Samuel has a broken arm from being kicked by a cow. At the same time, Mr. Alderson discovers that his tobacco is maturing early and is ready for harvesting. Having only two young sons, an inexperienced slave, and an injured slave, Mr. Alderson is desperate for help. He calls upon his brother, Randolph, for additional field help. After the first day of harvest Mr. Alderson returns home and is met by the midwife. He is the father of a new son.

Speak with Patrick Henry, John Randolph, and our 21st-century historian.

Segment Three

It is October and Mr. Alderson delivers his corn to the mill. The conversation centers on his productive corn yield. Unfortunately, they also talk about his disappointing tobacco crop in conditions that other farmers considered favorable. They talk about the good health of his wife and newborn son. They also discuss his brother Randolph's failure at farming and new attempt at blacksmithing. Mr. Alderson meets farmer Pruitt who is interested in buying two bull calves. The next day Mr. Alderson and his wife discuss what they can afford to purchase in the coming year. If they sell the bull calves they might be able to afford hiring Samuel again. Despite all of the problems he has faced and uncertainties about the year ahead, Mr. Alderson is still a contented farmer.

Speak with Mr. and Mrs. Alderson and our 21st-century historian.

Don't Forget:

Historians and staff are available to answer questions from your students for one hour after each broadcast.

You may also contact our historians through the Discussion Forum on the Internet site for the rest of the school year.

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