Monday, April 27, 2026

[Zephyrus52246]

Morning all,

It's raining here and looks like it will continue this afternoon.

The backdrop is still up, so I think that's a win.  I might do the second one if the rain clears for a few hours.  The adhesive stinks and I need to open the basement window for ventilation.  Otherwise I might start another kit.

Jeff

[BandOGuy]

Ain't retirement wonderful? Doing what you want when you want?

[deemery]

A question for James and others knowledgeable about small farms:  What would a simple pigpen look like?  James suggests a 19th century farm might raise a pig for fall slaughter, but where would they keep that pig during the summer?  

Unlike when I was looking for chicken coops, a quick web search didn't reveal any interesting/inspiring drawings. 

Thanks in advance!

dave

[Jim Donovan]

Aftrnoon Folks;

A late check in for me. Dave back in 1900 pigs were the garbage eaters of the farm (that is why their meat had to be cooked only well done as they would have worms. Hereis your answer put together by AI:

In the early 1900s, a typical summer pig pen (or "hog house") was a practical, low-tech environment designed to keep pigs cool and fed during the peak heat. Because pigs lack sweat glands, these pens were centered around heat management through shade and moisture.

Key Features of a 1900s Summer Pen

• The Structure: Hog houses were generally low, separate buildings with gabled or shed roofs. They often featured a small, enclosed indoor section for sleeping and an attached unroofed outdoor pen.
• Wallows: The defining feature of a summer pen was a "wallow"—a pit of damp earth or mud where pigs would lie to regulate their body temperature. In the early 1900s, these were typically dirt-floored areas that turned into "mud and filth" in the summer sun.
• Ventilation: Pens often had square openings or vents located high up in the eaves to allow for air circulation without creating low-level drafts. Some designs even utilized elevated platforms with slatted floors to improve airflow and sanitation.
• Shade: Strategic placement was critical. Farmers often built pens near tree lines or used the shadow of the main barn (usually on the south side) to provide relief from the midday sun.

I imagine the fence would have been a little more basic than the picture above but every pen I have seen is about the same for a small farm.

As for my own modeling efforts I am in cleaning and fix things up mode. I am making a better light for the workbench, cleaned up the layout to finally get the rest of track laid  and even managed to make a portable power pack for when I need power for led lighting away from the layout. Tomorrow probably more of the same. Have a great night everyone.

Jim

[GPdemayo]

Afternoon all.....