Pioneer Family – On Van Hoosen Farm

Air Dates: Monday, March 8, 2021 at 5:00am; Sunday, March 14, 2021 at 3:00am, 7:00pm, 11:00pm.
Watch online: DPTV Documentaries | Pioneer Family on Van Hoosen Farm | DPTV

This is the story about four strong and determined women who took over all the responsibilities of running the family farm after the men of the family died. They defied the prejudices of their time by seeking and becoming pioneers in professions held by men. Grandmother Sarah Taylor and mother Alice Van Hoosen Jones leased their land for farming purposes. Bertha Van Hoosen, the aunt, became the first woman in Michigan to become a medical doctor. Sarah Van Hoosen Jones, the granddaughter, became highly educated in agricultural studies and became a master farmer. She was the first woman to receive a PHD in animal genetics. She bred her own cows which were considered extraordinary and the Van Hoosen farm became a leading producer of milk. Sarah Van Hoosen Jones ran the farm under scientific management. She led experiments to improve the taste of milk by using different types of feed stored in newly introduced silos. She also worked to improve the safety measures in the production of milk which led to certification or bottling milk on site.

Curricular resources related to this documentary:

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Watch online: PBS LearningMedia
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Watch online: Cheese: Not the Same Mold Story | PBS LearningMedia
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Watch online: Cheesy Chemistry | PBS LearningMedia
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