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Corn husking was a serious competition in the 1920s, ’30s and early ’40s.
The Missouri State Cornhusking Competition is celebrating its 40th anniversary since being restarted again after WWII. It also pays homage to the national champion winner from 2022 who is from Marshall.
The Missouri State Corn Husking Championship in Marshall stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of cornhusking in the state. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a cherished tradition, this event captures the spirit of Missouri’s agricultural heritage. As the crowds gather each year to witness the competition and partake in the festivities, the tradition of cornhusking lives on, preserving the rich history and cultural significance of this timeless practice in the heart of Missouri.
Cornhusking, a time-honored tradition deeply rooted in the agricultural heritage of Missouri, continues to captivate and engage people from all walks of life. Dating back to the early 1900s, cornhusking contests have been a way to celebrate the skill and strength of individuals as they hand-pick and husk corn. This unique and exhilarating event showcases the dedication and connection to the land that has been passed down through generations.
The first cornhusking contest in Missouri took place over eight decades ago, attracting thousands of spectators to witness the remarkable display of manual corn harvesting. These contests served as a platform for participants to showcase their prowess in picking corn by hand. The inaugural event, held at the F.I. Taylor farm near New Berlin in 1924, marked the beginning of a tradition that would endure for years to come. Sponsored by Prairie Farmer magazine, these contests quickly gained popularity across the state and beyond.
Cornhusking contests in Missouri are open to individuals of all ages, allowing both men and women to partake in the excitement. Participants compete in various classes, ranging from novice to golden agers, showcasing their skills and vying for the title of the best cornhusker. The contests are divided into timed intervals, with competitors racing against the clock to husk as many ears of corn as possible within their allotted time. Each participant must skillfully remove the corn from the stalk and husk it cleanly, tossing the ears into a horse-drawn wagon.
Cornhusking is performed in the same manner as it was in the early 20th century, keeping the practice authentic and true to its roots. Contestants rely on simple tools, such as sturdy gloves, a leather strap with a metal hook, and a wagon with a 25-bushel capacity. The process involves swiftly grabbing an ear of corn, tearing away the husk with a hooked hand motion, and pitching the huskless ear into the wagon. A skilled husker can husk an impressive number of ears per minute, showcasing their speed and dexterity.
To gain a deeper understanding of the art of cornhusking, it is essential to delve into the techniques employed by participants. Armed with their favorite hook or peg, cornhuskers use these tools to efficiently remove the husks from the ears of corn. The leather and steel husking aids are strapped onto their hands, allowing for swift and precise movements. Huskers swiftly move down the row, slashing or ripping the husks from the ears using the V shape of the hook and the metal point of the peg. The ears are then grabbed near the butt end, broken from the shank, and tossed into the waiting wagon.
While speed is crucial in cornhusking contests, the cleanest ears in the wagon also play a significant role in determining the winner. Judges meticulously examine each ear, looking for marketable qualities such as a minimum length of three inches and fully developed kernels encircling the cob. Ears that fall short of these standards, known as nubbins, are not counted against the husker. However, deductions are made for husks left on the ears and any ears left in between rows or on the stalks. These deductions can make or break a competitor’s chances of victory.
Beyond the competitive nature of cornhusking contests, these events foster a sense of camaraderie and connection to the past. Many participants engage in cornhusking to honor their parents and grandparents who once participated in these contests. The tradition is deeply ingrained in their family history, and they continue the legacy as a way to pay homage to their ancestors. The contests provide an opportunity for individuals from different backgrounds to come together, share stories, and celebrate the agricultural heritage of Missouri.
While cornhusking remains a beloved tradition in Missouri, it has not been without its challenges. The advent of mechanization posed a threat to the practice of manual corn harvesting. As early as the 1924 contest, a mechanical husker demonstrated its efficiency by harvesting ears of corn at triple the rate of the fastest human husker. Despite this, the spirit of cornhusking persevered, as enthusiasts recognized the importance of preserving the traditional method and the connection it offers to the land.
Preserving the cornhusking tradition in Missouri is essential to honoring the state’s agricultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the hard work and dedication of those who labored in the fields, ensuring a bountiful harvest year after year. By participating in cornhusking contests and supporting organizations like the Missouri Corn Huskers Association, individuals can contribute to the preservation of this cherished tradition. Through their involvement, they not only keep the spirit of cornhusking alive but also inspire future generations to appreciate the rich history and legacy of agriculture in Missouri.
Marshall, Missouri serves a vital role in preserving the history and tradition of cornhusking. As we look to the future, it is crucial to nurture and promote the cornhusking tradition in Missouri. Encouraging participation from diverse age groups, organizing educational programs, and hosting community events can help ensure that this cherished tradition continues to thrive. By preserving and passing down the knowledge and skills associated with cornhusking, we can ensure that future generations are connected to their agricultural roots and appreciate the hard work and dedication required to harvest one of Missouri’s most essential crops.
Cornhusking contests in Missouri embody the spirit of hard work, skill, and connection to the land. These events celebrate the rich agricultural heritage of the state and serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving traditional farming practices. By participating in cornhusking contests, individuals can honor their ancestors, foster camaraderie, and contribute to the legacy of agriculture in Missouri. Let us cherish and safeguard this time-honored tradition, ensuring that the art of cornhusking continues to thrive for generations to come.
