Making Retro New

Today at my local MOPS group we had a speaker in to teach us about canning.  Several of us had been talking about learning it which is how the speaker came about.  It made me wonder though, why is canning almost a thing that was once done?  The speaker herself seemed shocked that we were interested.  Why?  It allows us control over what we add to it, uses items from gardens or allows us to take advantage of great deals at Farmer Markets.
  Food safety has been an issue for the past couple years with many recalls on what was once considered "healthy, safe foods".  I know I feel better knowing that I canned it, that the foods were washed, that I know where they would be grown, what was used to grow them (Farmers Markets are great for finding organic foods cheap), and exactly when the foods were canned. 
Another plus is cost.  As we are all aware the increase in gas prices has caused an increase everywhere else food it no exception.  Yes, to get started the jars, lids, and rings may be expensive though sometimes even those are on sale at hardware stores. (I know this because my Father in Law works for a local Ace Hardware and stocks up at those sales).  In the picture you see a boiling method which you can get for under $20 at Walmart etc.  Pressure cookers will be more expensive but may be found cheap online or at flea markets. 
My point is that in times like now where money is tight for many, especially people with children, why don't we look to the "old fashioned way"?  Maybe if you can green beans you could trade a few jars with a friend who canned carrots. 
I guess my love of the past makes a soft spot for these things.  I would just hate if it became a lost art, a thing that was once done way back when.  Especially when it could really be helpful now.  Our group has great fun doing these things together.  I can imagine a couple friends in the kitchen canning and talking while the kids play in another room or even outside.  These images are the ones that I hope to create in my home and life.  To show my children that in the midst of the crazy now now now world, simplicity is beautiful.