Sims, G I 1974-07-11

Terry County farmer G. I. Sims discusses his personal history and changes in his farming operation.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: G.I. Sims

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: July 11, 1974

Location: Brownfield, Texas

Interviewer: Jeff Townsend

Length: 1 hour 20 minutes

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Family background, early life, Reasons for move to Brownfield (1922), Use of Mexican labor for mesquite grubbing, Attempts to mechanically remove sand from cotton after 1926, Sandstorm recalled, Conversion to tractor discussed, Mrs. Sims’ first impressions of the Plains (1928), Significance of deep breaking practices given, Early use of arsenic for insect control noted, Skepticism of 4-row tractor and attitude toward mechanization, Post-war lifestyle changed, Claims sprinkler irrigation system needed from the beginning (1953), Farm labor (family, braceros) cited, Advantages, disadvantages of early cotton strippers surveyed, Attitude toward defoliants, herbicides, fertilizers, Johnson grass problems.

Tape 1, Side 2: Johnson grass problems (continued), Interest in cooperatives expressed, Comments on consolidation into larger farms, Son’s assumption of farm management discussed, Comments on love of soil.

Range Dates: 1922-1974

Bulk Dates: 1922-1950s

Access Information

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