One Acre and Security: How to Live Off the Earth Without Ruining It

by Bradford Angier

Willow Creek Press is proud to bring back to print Bradford Angier's classic One Acre & Security: How To Live Off the Earth without Ruining It. First published in 1972, Angier (deceased) is one of the pre-eminent voices of the back-to-the-earth movement. One Acre & Security is a book for all those who have dreamed of living close to the earth, not in the wilderness, but on land within easy driving distance of the city or suburbs. It begins by explaining what sort of land to look for, where to look and how to make sure of land titles. It goes on to discuss organic gardening on one acre of land, raising herbs for money and bees for honey, growing grapes, making wine, juice and jellies, and drying raisins. For the more serious back-to-the-earther, there are sections on how to build a house, keep cows, goats, sheep, pigs and poultry, raise rabbits, earthworms, fish, frogs and turtles, and how to find the best hunting and fishing. Angier's text is as useful and thorough today as it was 30 years ago, and deserves to be on the shelves of a new generation of back-to-earthers.

Genres: Nonfiction, Gardening, Survival

320 pages

First published January 1, 1972

Reviews

[Genevieve]

This was likely an excellent book when it originally came out, but it is sadly a bit dated at this juncture. It's still a solid choice for someone looking for a first book to read if they want to learn something about homesteading. It is a very basic introduction to some of the choices one could make when operating a small homestead and trying to be more self-sufficient. It does have the value of giving the reader subjects to search for more indepth books on. Recommended only as a first read - if you've read anything else about homesteading, self-sufficiency or operating a small/hobby farm, this will give you nothing new and is simply a waste of your time.

[Fredrick Danysh]

During the last couple of decades many people have been looking for a much simpler lifestyle free from the urban hustle and bustle. One Acre gives ideas and directions for living that simpler life on a small piece of property.

[Michael Baggetta]

I really enjoyed this comprehensive book on living well in the country!

[Sandra]

This is a reference book that one should keep on the shelf!

[Kathely]

Really really dated, but was probably quite visionary in the 1970s.