Black Farmer Stories preserves the history, legacy, and agricultural knowledge of Black farmers and ranchers across the U.S. This project was created in 2019 with the intention of being created for Black families who own land that is currently or once was in production.

Our vision for this project is to preserve Black agricultural producers’ work primarily for them and their relatives, those living now and future generations. With land loss shrinking Black property ownership to just the tiniest fraction of what African Americans once owned in the early 20th century, families need records of how and why their ancestors and kinfolk worked the land; what they grew and produced on it; how they lived and loved on it; and most importantly, how and why they held onto it.

Our goal is not just capture narratives of struggle or resilience, but to also record those quiet, tender moments of rest, joy, and celebration. Our work is rooted in preserving the legacy of Black farmers and their stories for the next generation. Support us in our work in continuing our investment in storytelling and amplifying these important stories for generations to come.

Black Farmer Stories’ mission was inspired and created from the initial stories of Jimi Vivens. We honor him in loving memory. Rest in power and peace.