Land Settlement Association facts for kids
The Land Settlement Association was a special plan set up by the UK Government in 1934. It got help from charities like the Plunkett Foundation and the Carnegie Trust. The main goal was to help people who didn't have jobs, especially from places like North-East England and Wales. They wanted to give these families a new start in farming.
Between 1934 and 1939, about 1,100 small farms, called small-holdings, were created across 26 different communities.
A New Start for Families
The Land Settlement Association created new communities in the countryside. Each family that joined the scheme was given a small farm, usually about 5 acres (2 hectares) in size. They also received farm animals and a newly built house.
These small farms were grouped together in communities. The idea was for everyone to work together like a cooperative. They would grow fruits and vegetables, often called market gardens. All the farming supplies were bought through the Association, and all the produce was sold through them too. This helped everyone get fair prices.
Before families were chosen, they were carefully checked. They also received special training in farming. This made sure they were ready for their new life.
Changes and the End of the Scheme
When the Second World War started, the plan to settle unemployed people was paused. The country needed to grow more food, so the focus shifted to people who already knew a lot about gardening and farming.
After the war, the Association became part of a bigger plan run by local councils. This new plan aimed to help people get started in farming.
The Land Settlement Association scheme finally ended in 1983. At that time, all the farms were sold to private owners. The scheme had been very successful, producing about 40% of all the salad crops grown in England!
What was left of the scheme's money was used to create the LSA Charitable Trust. This trust helps former tenants and supports education about gardening and farming.
Settlement Locations
The Land Settlement Association created communities in many places, including:
