HERITAGE FARMING IN SOMERSET #5

Somerset is my home, the place where I not only grew up but also learned to become a photographer. Over hundreds of hours spent on the historic Somerset Levels, I honed my craft, taking notes, failing, and learning. Thirty-seven years later, Somerset’s rich farming heritage continues to inspire me.

One warm summer day in 2006, I attended a vintage farming event celebrating traditional farming methods. With camera in hand, I wandered the site, capturing scenes that embodied vintage farming techniques, heritage agriculture, and the beauty of shire horses at work.

I came across a field where horse-drawn ploughing and vintage tractors were being demonstrated. Against the golden tones of the dry summer field and a vibrant blue sky dotted with impressive clouds, I saw an opportunity to create timeless images of a bygone era.

This collection, now titled Heritage Farming: Old Days, Old Ways, showcases nostalgic scenes of traditional farming tools, historic agricultural practices, and the elegance of working horses in the field. These moments represent not just Somerset but also a broader history of farming traditions in England.

Rediscovering these photos recently reminded me of the importance of preserving the legacy of heritage farm life. They are perfect as canvas art, bringing a sense of history and authenticity to any space.