The effects of following different management systems for four years and of cumulative soil erosion on soil properties and on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) were investigated for an Alfisol over four consecutive growing seasons. The soil loss due to erosion ranged from 0.42 to 524 ton/ha on the least and the most eroded plots, respectively. Subsequent maize grain yields ranged from 0.60 to 6.80 ton/ha. Past management affected soil contents of organic matter, total nitrogen, and exchangeable bases. Also affected were soil pH, and water retention and transmission characteristics. Subsoiling of eroded plots resulted in slight improvements in the yield of maize.