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More Power to the Farmer

Accession number: 
1940.0017

Directors:

Directors of Photography:

Actors and Participants:

Other Personnel:

Production Years: 
1940 to 1949

Languages:

Film Properties: 
Length (feet): 
800 (16mm)
Length (minutes): 
21
Holding Institutions: 

Library and Archives Canada: 16mm, VHS.
"Documentary about the benefits of wiring a farm buildings for electricity. Alex McKee portrays an old farmer, Mr. Henderson, who has had electricity hooked up to his farm, with the help of the Hydro Electric Power Commission of Ontario. He talks about how electricity helps him to be a better farmer, calling Ontario Hydro "one of the best hired men in the country". He describes how he got electricity on his farm, the need for proper wiring, the need to get expert advice, estimating water requirements, and the benefits of electrical appliances. The film uses animated diagrams to describe wiring and the flow of electrical current. There are scenes of farm animals and farm chores. His wife, played by Nellie Smith, talks about how electrical appliances such as the refrigerator, stove and vacuum cleaner have helped her save labour. Mr. Henderson talks about the use of electricity in the barn and dairy stable, electric milking machines and the use of an electric clipper to trim the coats of his livestock. His comments about being able to listen to the radio are illustrated by a show of an orchestra leader and a radio announcer (possibly Jim Hunter of CFRB). The film ends with a speech by the old farmer on the advantages of electricity: it increases farm profits; gives farm families more leisure time and keeps sons and daughters on the farm, giving them the advantages that city children have."