What was a significant role of women in New England settlements?

In New England settlements, women played a significant role in tending gardens and livestock, which was crucial for subsistence farming and the overall economy of the community. Agricultural practices in New England often relied on the combined efforts of family members, but women were particularly instrumental in managing household food supplies. They cultivated kitchen gardens that provided vegetables, herbs, and fruit essential for feeding their families throughout the year. Additionally, women were responsible for tending livestock, which provided milk, meat, and other resources important for sustaining life in the settlements.

This contribution not only supported the household but also contributed to the wider community's economy, as women would sometimes barter or sell surplus produce or animal products. This role was foundational in establishing stable and self-sufficient communities in the New England region during the colonial period.