Chris began working as a farm labourer at the age of six. He was hired out to a neighbouring farmer, Carl Hein, where he tended the animals and worked in the fields. A year later, he left home to begin a long career as a child farm-labourer. He would attend school during the day and work on the farm in the mornings and evenings. His wages were sent home to his family, whom he was allowed to visit once a week on Sundays.