EDWARDIAN FARM - PROGRESS

Cinemavixion Review

This episode of 'Edwardian Farm' immerses viewers in the arduous yet rewarding reality of early 20th-century rural life. Archaeologists Alex Langlands and Peter Ginn, alongside historian Ruth Goodman, embark on a year-long experiment to live and work as Edwardian farmers. The "Progress" episode focuses on the foundational tasks of establishing their new domestic existence. Viewers witness the trio tackling essential chores like scrubbing flagstone floors and clearing a choked chimney, highlighting the sheer physical labor involved in maintaining a home. Their agricultural endeavors are equally compelling, featuring the construction of a hayrick, the hiring of a stonemason for a vital trough, and the acquisition of new skills such as thatching. The establishment of a small livestock operation, with the introduction of chickens and sheep, marks significant progress. Culinary historian Ruth Goodman also provides a glimpse into the era's diet with the preparation of a sheep's head stew, offering a visceral connection to the past. This episode effectively captures the spirit of resilience and resourcefulness required to thrive on the land during this period.