Accessing Historic Farm Records in New Hampshire
GrantID: 6117
Grant Funding Amount Low: $6,500
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $6,500
Summary
Grant Overview
Preserving Historic Farm Records in New Hampshire
Rural-Urban Barriers for Agricultural Historians in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a state deeply rooted in agricultural practices, with approximately 80% of its land classified as rural and vital to the local economy. However, many graduate researchers encounter barriers in accessing historic farm records, thus limiting their ability to study agricultural heritage comprehensively. This gap is particularly pronounced within the context of the state’s small farms and localized agricultural narratives, leaving many vital stories and practices undocumented.
Who Is Confronting These Barriers Locally?
Graduate students from universities like the University of New Hampshire, especially those engaged in agricultural studies or history programs, will find this funding opportunity beneficial. Many of these students face obstacles in sourcing effective research materials on New Hampshire's agricultural practices, particularly as traditional archive systems often overlook rural and localized narratives. Furthermore, local farmers and historical societies are increasingly interested in contributing to this effort by sharing their unique stories and records, yet the lack of funding has hindered collaboration.
How the Funding Addresses Local Challenges
By providing resources for the preservation of historic farm records, this funding initiative creates a platform for graduate researchers to collect documents, oral histories, and agricultural data from local farmers. This project encourages collaboration with agricultural communities to ensure that their histories are accurately represented in academic research. In so doing, it supports a deeper understanding of New Hampshire's agricultural landscape while enhancing the relevance of graduate research.
Eligibility Criteria in New Hampshire
To qualify for the fellowship, candidates must be graduate students who have completed all coursework for their doctoral degrees with a focus on agricultural history or related fields. They are expected to demonstrate an understanding of rural lifeways and how historic records illuminate current agricultural practices and challenges faced by farmers in New Hampshire.
Application Requirements and Challenges
The application process necessitates the submission of a detailed research proposal that outlines the methodologies and objectives for preserving farm records. Applicants must include plans for collaboration with local farmers and historical societies to gather data effectively. Demonstrating previous research experience within agricultural contexts will strengthen the proposal. Additionally, candidates should outline how their work benefits the local farming community and contributes to preserving New Hampshire’s agricultural heritage.
Fit with New Hampshire's Rural Character
In light of New Hampshire's unique rural landscape and agricultural heritage, fellowship recipients must ensure their research aligns with the state’s needs for historical documentation. Projects should aim to reflect the diverse farming practices throughout the state and contribute to prevailing conversations about agricultural sustainability, local food systems, and rural economies. This connection to the community is essential for enriching both academic inquiry and local heritage preservation efforts.
Conclusion
The initiative to preserve historic farm records in New Hampshire signifies vital opportunities for graduate students to engage with agricultural history while documenting essential elements of the state’s rural culture. By bridging the gap between academia and local agricultural communities, this funding fosters valuable research that not only informs scholarly work but also actively involves stakeholders invested in preserving New Hampshire’s rich farming legacy.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
