Black-Owned Farms in the South

The Southern United States has a rich history of Black-owned farms that have significantly contributed to agriculture, culture, and community development. Despite facing historical challenges, many of these farms continue to thrive, offering fresh produce, educational programs, and a commitment to sustainable practices. Here are some notable Black-owned farms in the South:

Alabama:

• Bridgeforth Farms (Tanner, AL): Established in 1877, Bridgeforth Farms is one of the oldest and largest Black-owned farms in the United States. Spanning over 5,000 acres, the farm produces soybeans, wheat, and corn. 

Now in its fifth generation of family ownership and operation in North Alabama, Bridgeforth Farms began in the years immediately following the Civil War with the grit and resilience of George Bridgeforth, a former slave who persevered to buy and farm his land. Each generation since has built upon that legacy to grow the enterprise to impact the health and lives of others positively.

Georgia:

• New Communities (Albany, GA): Founded in 1969, it was one of the largest Black-owned land trusts and farm cooperatives in the U.S., covering 5,700 acres.  New Communities is a grassroots organization that has worked for more than 40 years to empower African American families in Southwest Georgia and advocate for social justice. 

Mississippi:

• Freedom Farm Cooperative (Sunflower County, MS): Established by civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer in 1969, this cooperative aimed to empower Black farmers and alleviate poverty through collective farming. 

Tennessee:

• Craig Family Farm (Linden, TN): Established in 1871 by Tapp Craig, a formerly enslaved person, this farm has been recognized as a Tennessee Century Farm for its long-standing contribution to agriculture. 

Arkansas:

• Delta Dirt Distillery (Helena, AR): A family-run distillery producing spirits from sweet potatoes, corn, and wheat grown on their own farm, honoring their agricultural heritage. 

Dori Sanders’ time at her family’s peach stand inspired her book Clover.

South Carolina:

• Dori Sanders’ Peach Farm (Filbert, SC): Owned by Dori Sanders, one of the oldest Black farmers in the South, this 250-acre farm has been in her family for over a century, specializing in peaches and vegetables. 

Texas:

• Alexander Farm (South of Austin, TX): Founded in 1847 by an enslaved individual, this historic farm is one of the few remaining Black-owned farms in Texas, continuing its agricultural operations today. 

While this isn't an exclusive list, supporting these black-owned farms in the South, not only honors their rich histories but also promotes sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment within Black communities across the South. Know of any Black owned farms to add to our list? Enter your favorites in the comments.