This is a check-wire anchor stake, also known as a corn stake or row marker. This stake anchored the knotted wire that ran through the trip forks on a two-row corn planter. As each knot ran through the trip forks two hills of corn were planted in parallel rows. At the end of each row, the farmer moved the anchor stake to the center of the planter, adjusted the tension on the wire to that of the previous row, and continued to plant. In this way the field was planted in an even grid that allowed for cultivation of weeds either lengthwise or crosswise of the field. Today, corn is drilled closer together which does not allow for cross-cultivation, and herbicides are used to keep the weeds out. For any use other than instructional resources, please check with the organization that owns this item regarding copyright restrictions.
2018.018.100 [Guidepost]
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