Poetry · Chapter
Windmills and Stone Stables explained
This poem describes the improved conditions for cows through modern innovations like windmills for water pumping and stone stables for warmth, along with practical advice for their care to maximize milk production.
What happens
This poem describes the improved conditions for cows through modern innovations like windmills for water pumping and stone stables for warmth, along with practical advice for their care to maximize milk production.
Themes in this chapter
Agriculture and Rural Economy
The poem focuses on dairy farming practices, emphasizing the benefits of windmills and stone stables for cow comfort and milk yield.
Progress and Technology
Windmills represent technological advancement in rural life, solving water supply issues and improving animal husbandry.
Key passages
“Cows suffered in the days of old For want of water and from cold, Now of good water they have fill For it is pumped by the windmill.”
In the past, cows lacked water and warmth, but now windmills provide them with ample water.
Highlights the contrast between past hardships and modern improvements.
“But good stone walls now them enfold, And they are warm and safe from cold.”
Stone stables now protect cows from the cold, keeping them warm and secure.
Emphasizes the benefit of stone stables over old board sheds.
“If bran slops you on cow bestow Of milk it will increase the flow.”
Feeding cows bran slops will boost their milk production.
Provides practical farming advice for increasing dairy yield.