1917-South Windsor Tobacco Growers Association formed
In 1917, a group of tobacco farmers incorporated as the South Windsor Tobacco Growers Association initially to address local labor shortages, but more broadly to address issues of concern. The cooperative pooled their resources to bring African American migrant laborers up from the South. Partnering with other local associations, in 1919, it organized four institutes to study tobacco fertilization and diseases. Membership cost $1 (equal to about $22 today), and members could buy $5 stock certificates. Fees were also assessed based on their total acreage.
Left, a group of growers at Farmer’s Public Warehouse for tobacco, around 1938.
Image: Photograph collection, 1995.04.662