Patricia, a peasant, becomes pregnant by Jacques, a military pilot from a local family.

After Jacques is reported killed in the war, both families wish to meet their new grandchild.

[1] In the film's most famous scene, Patricia and Jacques' families and the rest of the village listen to Philippe Pétain's speech of 17 June 1940 announcing the need for an armistice in the Battle of France.

Because of the scene La Fille du puisatier has been called the first "Vichy film".

[1] French actor Daniel Auteuil wrote, directed, and starred in a remake of this film in 2011.