When Farmers Were Heroes
The Era of National Corn Husking Contests
In 1936, TIME magazine declared corn husking "...the fastest growing sporting spectacle in the world." Celebrating agrarian values in a festival atmosphere, annual national corn husking contests each attracted over 100,000 spectators during the 1930s and early 1940s. Contests were broadcast live to radio audiences across the country and the winners became national heroes. When the United States entered World War II in 1941, these huge events were abruptly halted. [25 minutes]
This episode has not aired in the past few months on Iowa Public Television.
Program Description: In 1936, TIME magazine declared corn husking "...the fastest growing sporting spectacle in the world." Celebrating agrarian values in a festival atmosphere, annual national corn husking contests each attracted over 100,000 spectators during the 1930s and early 1940s. Contests were broadcast live to radio audiences across the country and the winners became national heroes. When the United States entered World War II in 1941, these huge events were abruptly halted.
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