A visit to the Small Farmer's Journal Horsedrawn Auction and Swap

I had the opportunity to attend the Small Farmer's Journal Auction and Swap today at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Madras. I've had a poster advertising this event up in the store for weeks. I'd talked about wanting to attend and see what this 33 year old event was all about, but getting away was a bit of challenge.

For those of you who don't know about the Small Farmers Journal I encourage you to pick one up.  I have past issues at Cowgirl Cash.  It is an international agrarian quarterly based in Sisters.  For 35 years they have worked diligently to support the belief that animal-powered agriculture is viable, efficient,sustainable, beautiful and profitable.  The quarterly is filled with beautiful photos, recipes, how to articles, and International "apprenticeships".

Clyde and I headed to Madras about 2:30 on Wednesday, the first day of the event. The Program and Salebill was easily found and is filled with classes, events, and auction information.  The idea of this meet is to swap everything from tools, and equipment to stories and information.

 The event was easy to find.  Coming from Bend just turn left on Fairground Rd. You'll see the sign.

 The first day was "set up" for the many vendors and sellers.

The best way to learn more is to check out the web site for the Small Farmers Journal, and see and read what these people are doing to promote small agriculture. The auction office is filled with books on how to make cheese, keep bees, raise chickens, can and preserve food, and grow hay.  It's a living museum and school.  Dress warm, wear comfortable shoes and check out this authentic, practical, beautiful event.