Pioneer Men

Did pioneer men ever have any fun?

A day in the life of a pioneer man often started long before the sun came up. In order to survive the harsh elements of the unsettled land, much work had to be done whenever possible. Land needed preparing for planting; seeds had to be planted before the heat and the rains; and crops needed harvesting before the frost.

• Before daybreak fathers and grandfathers alike would head to the barn to take care of the stock. The animals often meant life or death to the settlers, so feeding and watering the animals came before your breakfast.

• After breakfast the daily work would start. In the spring it was clearing, plowing and preparing the ground for planting. In the summer the men would spend time planting, irrigating, and often building barns, fences, and houses. In the fall it was a time of harvest and preparation for winter; wood had to be gathered, hay needed stacking for winter feed, and meat had to be hunted for winter food. Winter brought shorter hours of sunlight, so father might get a bit of a rest. But always the animals needed caring for, wood needed to be found, and hunting was a necessity.

• Whenever possible chores were turned to social events. Often men, along with their families, would gather together with neighbors to help build a barn or house. "Barnraising" was a fond social.

• Because animals needed training, friendly competitions would arise. A horse race was not uncommon.

• Sunday was a great gathering time for the men. The early Saints would have special meetings just for the men. This was a time to discuss beliefs, ideas, crops, families, and responsibilities. Having the friendly support of neighbors was important to fathers and grandfathers.

• With so many responsibilities and hard work, it became very important for pioneer men to relax. Brigham Young often encouraged the Saints to participate in entertaining and enjoyable activities. Pioneer men often played the fiddle or other band instruments. Dances were a favorite of men and women alike. Plays were practiced and performed weekly. Social halls were erected in almost all communities.