In this week’s episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew takes a thoughtful walk through history, sparked by a humble but enduring piece of equipment found in nearly every beekeeper’s supply box—the Boardman feeder. What begins as a practical look at feeding honey bee colonies becomes a fascinating exploration of beekeeping lore, forgotten innovators, and personal reflections on how ideas shape generations.

Jim traces the origins of the Boardman feeder to its namesake, Hiram R. Boardman of East Townsend, Ohio, reflecting on how many of beekeeping’s most enduring tools were crafted by observant tinkerers in their own bee yards. He draws parallels to the lesser-known Alexander feeder and veil, celebrating the inventive minds behind beekeeping’s early advancements.

Through the lens of E.E. Root’s 1923 booklet Feeds and Feeding, Jim examines how feeding practices—and the philosophies behind them—have evolved. He shares his own changing perspective on feeding colonies, offering a candid view that challenges the notion of stimulative feeding as a default practice. Along the way, Jim considers how the field has shifted from individual innovation to data-driven science, and what we might be losing in the process.

This episode isn’t just about feeders. It’s about history, humility, and honoring the legacy of those who laid the foundation for what we do today—one rabbit hole at a time.

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Jim Thompsons Article about the history of Honey Bee Feeders in Bee Culture: https://beeculture.com/a-history-of-feeders/

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Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

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Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.

Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott

Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics)

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