Early settlers had to be quite self-sufficient. They primarily raised hay and grain and kept a few farm animals for work and for food. As the population grew, some farmers furnished milk and butter to customers in the city. Later, farmers branched into dairy or poultry operations to augment family income; a few raised cash crops like onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. Since World War II, most of the local small farms have gone out of business and only a few large farms specializing in dairy or beef production remain in operation. In the early 1990s, only one farm raised garden fruits and vegetables on a commercial basis. Irrigation for farming is still obtained through the western Irrigation Company Canal, constructed in 1858 and enlarged in 1884. The Willard Bay Canal, constructed through Farr West in 1965, may in time serve part of the community.

Education has always assumed a vital role in community life. The first frame school building in western Harrisville was built in 1872. It was replaced in 1880 with a new red brick schoolhouse. In 1914 a yellow brick school building was erected in the center of town. Through the consolidation of area schools, this building was taken out of service in 1938. In 1941 the Walquist Elementary School began serving the public and in 1950 was converted to a junior high school. The new Farr West Elementary School began operation in the northwestern part of the community in 1983.

The first LDS church building was completed in 1891, serving as the center of church and community activities for fifty-three years until it was destroyed by fire in 1944. Other LDS chapels were constructed in 1926 and in 1981.