In 1978, Illinois machinist Russ Crow planted a garden because groceries cost too much; decades later, about 100 varieties he saved were still being kept alive

In 1978, Russ Crow began his journey as a bean collector after he started a vegetable garden. He wanted to grow his own food to cut down on grocery expenses for his family. Crow eventually became a member of the Seed Savers Exchange and contributed significantly to heirloom bean preservation. His network, known as The Little Easy Bean Network, helped enhance the bean collection and promote seed conservation.