Five farms in Union County in extreme southern Illinois were studied in depth, and about 100 more were briefly surveyed to ascertain how the farm women's roles have changed over the years. Well into the twentieth century, the male and female domains on these farms were relatively well defined. Within the barn and its yards, the husband had primary…

Compares traits and attitudes of two Illinois farming communities with populations characterized as "German yeoman" and "Yankee entrepreneur." Discusses how community characteristics shape responses to social and economic changes and affect the course of economic development. (SV)