Kirjahaku

In the closing decades of the nineteenth century, John and Flora Baird set up their home in Ayrshire, Scotland, and built a thriving farm and a successful family. But the story didn't end there. Each of the Baird sons carried on the legacy of their father, meeting the challenges and opportunities of the new century in their own way. This is the story of John, who grew a burgeoning farming business and was known as a man 'with golden hands', and of Andrew, who took his inherited farm and bred a coveted, world-famous herd of cows and bulls. It is also the story of Hugh, who followed the promises of a land of 'milk and honey' in Canada, and set up his own roots there and of Gilbert, who enlisted to fight in the First World War and saw its horrors first-hand. The Sons of the Farmer is an intricately researched, warmly told narrative of the Baird family as they grew and established their own legacies in Scotland, England, and Canada, set against the tumultuous backdrop of early twentieth century history.

Iain Baird travelled to Kenya many times with groups of students and teachers as part of school linking projects. Jambo, Mr Iron Bird describes some of the many interesting events that took place during these visits and relates them to an overall view of Kenya, its people and its culture. It is clear that Iain has a deep affection for Kenya, however, his descriptions highlight both the highs and the lows that he experienced during his visits. The book contains amusing incidents travelling on public transport, as well as disturbing experiences when he travelled to Rwanda. The historical references that Iain uses to add to his descriptions are very informative and provide a useful back-story to what was taking place during the school twinning visits. Having fallen in love with Kenya during the school exchange visits he later travelled as a tourist with his wife and friends, which enabled him to see more of the wildlife and meet some wonderful people in other parts of Kenya.

The end of the nineteenth century was a difficult time for farmers in Scotland. A decade of cold years made it hard to grow crops or feed animals and grain growers faced competition from America after the repeal of the Corn Laws. In these harsh conditions, ordinary families still pursued their lives and loves. My Father Was a Farmer in New Cumnock tells the story of the Baird family and of their joys and struggles on their farm.