The Book of Mules by Donna Campbell Smith

Author:Donna Campbell Smith
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Publisher: Lyons Press, The
Published: 2012-06-22T19:52:32+00:00

CHAPTER SIX

Working Mules

For almost two centuries the mule was the mainstay of American farmers, especially in the South. Mules were used for plowing, harvesting, and hauling goods to market. The mule inherited its stamina in hot weather from the desert-bred donkey side of the family, which made the mule a valued work animal on Southern cotton and tobacco farms. In addition to farm work, the mule was important as a pack animal and for pulling wagons in the commercial and military worlds.

Farming

In high-tech and mechanized America, the idea of farming with mules may seem like a step backward, but more and more small farmers are finding the practice cost effective and environmentally friendly. Organic and green farmers are more often using work animals to power plows and cultivators. Advocates suggest that farmers save money not just on fossil fuels, but on the initial cost of buying the animal. Refurbishing vintage equipment is also less expensive than buying and repairing a tractor and modern accessories.The mule isn’t likely to need new parts or other expensive repairs.The mule can even help produce its own “fuel”—food, that is.

Some favor mules over horses simply because they are hardier and cheaper to feed. In her article “Following the Plow” in the Spring, 1974, issue of Mother Earth News, Gail Damerow writes: “In Southern states, mules are more popular than horses because they can better withstand the South’s hot, humid weather.” She goes on to say the mule’s peripheral vision is better than that of the horse, making mules less likely to shy. She comments on the mule’s sure-footedness and sense of self-preservation as additional pluses.

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