The Arkansas State University Museum has just opened a new permanent exhibition on agriculture in the area. This exhibition is part of the "Living Off the Land" area in the main gallery, which has been closed to the public during construction.

On exhibit are numerous implements that were commonly used on the farm in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Photographs of farming practices of the period are included.

Large equipment on exhibition includes plows, a cultivator, hay rake and grain drill that were pulled by mules or horses. Among smaller implements on exhibit are a corn sheller, cattle dehorner, hay knives and scythes, hay press and more. Over the years, numerous people have donated the implements used for this exhibition.

During the late 1800s and early 1900s most people in the region made their living off the land. The economy was based on agriculture. Most farms were small family operations of 40 acres. It was a hard life of never-ending work. In addition to the crops, there were animals to feed, equipment to maintain, fences to mend and buildings to repair. Family life revolved around all the work. "Living Off the Land" gives a glimpse of this life.

The ASU Museum, located in the west wing of the Dean B. Ellis Library complex, is open to the public. Suggested admission is a $2 donation per person. Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Saturday and Sunday hours are 1 to 5 p.m. For more information or to schedule a tour, call (870) 972-2074.