Preserving Traditions by Rediscovering the Art of Home Canning

Growing up on a farm in Southeastern North Carolina, my childhood was steeped in practical lessons and hands-on experiences that shaped my understanding of food, nutrition, and home life. Long before I appreciated it, I watched my grandmother labor in the sweltering kitchen, transforming bushels of tomatoes into jars of vibrant, rich marinara sauce, and bottling sweet summer strawberries into jam. Today, as I reflect on those long, hot days filled with laughter and labor, I realize just how vital the art of canning has become again in our modern world.

A century ago, canning was not merely a pastime; it was a necessity. Each season’s bounty was preserved for the harsh winters, and during times of war, home canning peaked as households looked for ways to manage food scarcity. While canning’s popularity has ebbed and flowed over the decades — taking a notable dive in the late 20th century due to industrialized food production — today, we’re witnessing a remarkable renaissance. The pandemic has fueled a massive revival in home canning, as many turned to their gardens and kitchen as sources of comfort and creativity.

While many embrace canning for nostalgia or simple enjoyment, it’s essential to approach this age-old practice with the right knowledge and precautions. With a flood of information available online, navigating canning safely can feel overwhelming. Mistakes, such as using untested recipes or neglecting to properly check pressure canner gauges, can lead to riskier foodborne illnesses, including botulism. It’s important not only to enjoy the fruits of your labor but to ensure safety in the process.

Canned goods filled with love and tradition.

So, if you’re ready to embrace the wonderful world of home canning, I invite you to consider a unique opportunity. On October 7 from 1-3 p.m., I’ll be joining experienced Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Avery Ashley for a hands-on canning class focused on the beloved dill pickle. Participants will not only learn how to can but will have the chance to ask questions and dive deep into the nuances of food preservation. The class will take place at the N.C. Cooperative Extension - New Hanover County Center and Arboretum, catering to all experience levels — from curious beginners to seasoned pros.

For only $15, this engaging workshop is an entry point into a fulfilling and delicious hobby. Spaces are limited to ensure personalized guidance, so make sure to register here to secure your spot!

Whether you seek the joy of preserving the harvest from your backyard garden or want to explore the traditions that have nourished generations, there’s truly something magical about canning. As you transform fresh produce into pantry staples, you’re not just creating food; you’re crafting memories and stories that last far beyond the growing season.

Join me in rediscovering this beautiful art, rooted in family and community, and learn how to safely preserve the delicious products of our gardens. Together, we can return to a simpler time while embracing the contemporary joys of homesteading, one jar at a time. As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with the crispness of fall, let’s celebrate the bounty of nature through the timeless practice of canning.

Each jar tells a story of the season and the hands that crafted it.