Modern Families Confront 1880s Financial Trial in Back to the Frontier Survival Challenge

A Glimpse into Frontier Life

Back to the Frontier, a television series that explores the challenges of living in an 1880s homestead setting, recently aired an episode on July 25, 2025. The show, produced by Chip and Joanna Gaines, continues its social experiment by placing three modern families in a historical environment. The goal is to see how these families adapt to life without modern conveniences.

This particular episode focused on a budgeting challenge that tested how each family balanced their needs and wants. After spending their first night in the homesteads, the families received $30 in “frontier money,” which equates to about $1 in today’s currency. They were then instructed to walk two miles to the general store and purchase essentials for the week.

The way each family spent their money varied significantly. Some families prioritized necessities, while others opted for comfort items. Dr. Jacob Friefeld, the homestead historian, emphasized the importance of budgeting, warning that spending for immediate comfort could lead to long-term hardship. He also reminded viewers that one in three families in the 1880s failed to sustain this lifestyle, highlighting the stakes for the families participating in the summer-long experiment.

Diverse Spending Habits

The Hanna-Riggs family, accustomed to a comfortable life in Texas, seemed less concerned with saving their money. Jason Hanna spent $2.83, more than what was suggested, on a mix of groceries, candy, and playing cards. This choice reflected their modern habits and made it clear that adapting to frontier life could be challenging for them.

In contrast, the Halls kept their spending to the basics, focusing on essential items. The Lopers, while trying to avoid extra purchases, still found it difficult to resist small treats. Grandma Shirley from the Loper family bought penny candy for the children, showing that even in a strict budget, temptation can be hard to resist.

The narrator noted that “being tempted by desire can be one of the most difficult things to overcome.” For the Hanna-Riggs family, choosing coffee and comfort items over basic supplies illustrated how modern habits can hinder their ability to adjust to frontier life. The challenge highlighted that even a small budget can create tough choices between immediate gratification and long-term needs.

Challenges Ahead

The two-mile walk to and from the store meant every purchase had to be carefully considered. Forgetting something or running out of supplies would require another long trip, adding to the difficulty of managing their limited resources.

The episode also hinted at potential risks that could affect each family's success moving forward. Jereme Hall’s preference for seclusion might limit the Halls’ willingness to seek help from other families if needed. Meanwhile, the Lopers faced the impending departure of Grandma Shirley, whose contributions had been vital to their household.

For the Hanna-Riggs family, their tendency to spend freely could lead to problems if they later needed funds for trade or emergencies. As the narrator pointed out, “On the homestead, being broke could end up being their downfall.” The reminder that historically one in three families failed in this lifestyle left open the possibility that a similar outcome could happen here.

Balancing Risks and Decisions

The uncertainty of weather, crop yields, and health issues added further risk. Any unexpected setback could quickly use up their resources, placing extra pressure on making careful decisions in both budgeting and cooperation. Success on the homestead would likely depend on balancing self-reliance with the willingness to work alongside others.

As the families continue their journey, their choices and adaptability will be crucial. The experience offers a unique perspective on the challenges of historical living and the importance of thoughtful decision-making. Stay tuned for more updates as the families navigate the trials of frontier life.