CONCRETE ON THE FARM Throughout the greater portion of the coun try the pioneer days of hardship and forced econ omy are over. These conditions led to flimsy construction; but the time has come now when the farmer can use better materials in his con structive work. All that is needed is that he shall understand the value of concrete for this purpose, its adaptability, endurance, and perma nency. When this material is generally adopted in this manner in the rural communities, this country will be on basis structurally with the old countries of Europe.
The many uses to which concrete may be put by the farmer to insure to him durability and that imperishable quality so much to be desired, are being recognized more and more. Certain well-defined rules in the construction of concrete work, based on the experience of others, make the handling of cement by even the inexperi enced an easy matter, provided, of course, that the rules are adhered to.
Any material that assures to the agriculturist the certainty that what he builds will last, not only during his lifetime, but during that of his children and his children's children, is to his advantage. And when it is considered that he can employ cement in making his improvements at a cost not exceeding that which he would have to pay if perishable lumber or timber were used, it is evident that concrete must be adopted generally by the wise home-maker and the agri culturist.
and give to the windmill a solid foundation that will insure it against being blown over in storms.
Excavate four holes at the desired distance apart, feet square and 5 feet deep. Build forms for the sides, and grease them properly. Fill the forms 2 feet deep with concrete, one part cement, three parts sand, and six parts of gravel or broken stone, of a jelly-like consistency, tamp ing well everyfour inches.
The holding-down bolts can be suspended from a frame over the top, care being taken to place them so that they will be in true position when the concrete is placed around them. They should be two feet long, with plates to resist the pulling strain. Fill the form with concrete flush with the top, and allow it to remain for several days before using. This will make a substantial anchorage for a steel tower. If a wooden tower is to be used, run projecting bolts up through the timber sills, and use large cast-iron washers under the bolts. The anchorage in this case should project at least six inches above the ground.