Almanacs, Large and Small

Over the years we have built a small but varied collection of almanacs. In the 1700s & 1800s almanacs came in all sizes and shapes. Much like magazines, each almanac had a purpose. In reading through copies of our Farmers’ Almanac one item caught my attention.

Periodically, the editor would offer comments about life. In 1928, William Jardine said “Don’t allow the old fashioned neighborliness be forgotten in these days of telephones, automobiles, trolleys and daily mail. The good custom of visiting is too rapidly disappearing in many communities. The newcomer is apt to be neglected and not made to feel welcomed.”

Wow – daily mail and the automobile allowed people to reach out at the expense of those who lived close by. Fast-forward almost 80 years and we look at a world that is ever shrinking. The definition of a “neighbor” expanded. Thomas Friedman makes a compelling argument that the “World Is Flat.” And that it is being driven by technology. We may or may not know our neighbors, but we can develop friendships and connections with new neighbors from around the world.

What the paper copy of the Farmers’ Almanac has not done, the internet has allowed. We hear from people world- wide who enjoy the Farmers’ Almanac. It is not an everyday thing but we know we have fans around the world and the internet expands our reach.

In 2002 we held a National Dessert Election. Apple Pie was selected and we published the winning recipes. A gentleman from St. Petersburg, Russia, asked what “shortening” was. We offered a substitute and he made a pie for his wife. He next tried brownies. So, we are a source for recipes no matter where you cook.

In 2004, I had a gentleman writ to me in Portuguese, asking if he could link my website to his in Brazil.

My English text is proudly displayed on his website.

This week, I heard from Fernando in Brazil and Alex in Australia looking to purchase a copy of the 2007 edition. I would love to sell almanacs internationally. We only offer weather for the United States and Canada, but there are so many great articles, and oh yes, recipes, that make the Almanac a must-have book. If you live outside of North America and wish to get a copy of the 2007 Farmers’ Almanac, let me know and we will make it happen.

For 12 years I had a writing prompt for elementary students. We published the best of the best. A friend in England sent the challenge out to students in American schools throughout the world. You guessed it; we had hundreds of entries for Germany, Poland, and Japan. It is gratifying to know that what we do in America can be fun for people everywhere.

I do get requests for weather from Europeans traveling to the US and Canada as they plan their vacations months in advance. I do my best!

I have been asked about producing the almanac in other languages. At this point it has not been economically viable but it is something that Sandi Duncan and I consider from time to time.

Have a wonderful weekend. Check your trees for color and enjoy the beginnings of the fall season.

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