The Roots Run Deep The Reed’s Legacy in Farming and Community
The Roots Run Deep The Reed’s Legacy in Farming and Community
In McIntosh, Alabama’s quiet countryside, Vernon Reed’s family is a testament to hard work, determination, and an unwavering love for the land. With over 200 acres of farmland and a legacy that spans generations, Mr. Vernon Reed’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a connection to deep roots. He isn’t just a farmer; he’s a steward of his family’s legacy, cultivating crops and a sense of community that transcends time. His journey is one of hard work, adaptation, and a deep connection to the land he calls home.
Today, as part of Vivian’s Door’s ongoing efforts to spotlight Black farmers, we’re excited to share his story.
From Grandma’s Fields to Family Tradition
“…I came to live with my grandmother Clara “Teen” Roberts when I was eight. She owned two hundred acres of land, and we farmed old school—with horses, mules, and everything in between,” Mr. Reed recalls with a fond smile. In those early mornings and long days, the seeds of his farming life were planted here. By his early twenties, with a tractor in hand and a vision in his heart, Mr. Reed was ready to take on the family business. It was a family affair, built on the land where his grandmother worked with cattle, hogs, and chickens long before big supermarkets dominated the food chain. “She was hard-working, self-sufficient, and a legacy builder; we didn’t need anything from the outside,” he says, his voice carrying the weight of tradition and pride.
Shifting Gears: From Crops to Pines and Catfish
Farming is a business of change, and Mr. Reed knows this all too well. He was able to modernize the farm after buying a tractor with savings from working at a chemical plant. “We got ourselves a tractor, and the rest, as they say, is history.”
Furthermore, he explains, “We stopped traditional farming and started planting pine trees around 1995.” The move wasn’t just about adapting to the times but about survival. The trees now stand tall, a testament to foresight and perseverance. And alongside the pines? There’s our catfish operation, which has seen its own evolution.
Mr. Reed makes it sound simple: “I feed them chicken feed and go home.” But don’t be fooled; there’s a unique method to his operation. While most say farmed catfish won’t reproduce in a pond, Mr. Reed found a way. “I set up some buckets for them to lay their eggs, and it worked! We’ve got boy scouts, church groups, and people coming to fish. That’s what keeps us going.”
“We had a pretty big operation but scaled back when they moved the processing plant. Now it’s more of a fish-out operation,” he chuckles.
The Struggles of a Black Farmer: Fighting for Every Acre
Mr. Reed’s story isn’t just one of success but struggle—especially as a Black farmer. “We were the first to apply for that USDA program, but they didn’t even do the paperwork the first time,” he says, the frustration still evident. Yet, he pressed on, battling the elements and the systemic barriers that sought to hold him back. “It wasn’t until President Obama was in office that we started seeing some changes,” he notes, “…we finally got some financial assistance, but by then, we’d had to borrow money,” his voice tinged with relief and determination.
Mr. Reed knows the struggle for Black farmers to receive fair treatment. Despite being placed on a USDA board to represent farmers, he was often outnumbered and outvoted. “They didn’t want to hear what I had to say. But that’s how it’s been for many of us. “We’re here, but sometimes we’re treated like we’re invisible.”
Mud Rides and Memories: Keeping Legacy Alive
While “the farming may have scaled back”, the land is still alive with fun and activity. “We started hosting mud rides around 2005—big money in that,” Mr. Reed grins, the excitement evident. The family’s 200 acres have seen it all, from boy scouts and church groups to thousands of thrill-seekers on mud-splattered ATVs. It’s not just about the money, though. For Mr. Reed, it’s about maintaining the land, keeping it pristine, and preparing it for the next generation. “If I were a young man, I’d go all in, but I just don’t want to anymore,” he admits, with the wisdom of someone who’s seen it all.
Advice for the Next Generation: Start Young, Think Big
When asked what advice he’d give to young farmers, Mr. Reed doesn’t hesitate. “Take advantage of what’s out there,” Mr. Reed says firmly. The USDA has programs, and they’re getting better about being fair, but you need to have land. That’s the biggest challenge for our people.” He also points out the importance of partnerships and networking, highlighting a fellow farmer in Washington County who is thriving thanks to his connections.
Another nugget of sage advice he has for young farmers is to start early, leverage every resource, and not be afraid to dream big. “We made good money with the pine trees and the mud rides, but you’ve got to be willing to put in the work,” he says, emphasizing the importance of land and labor.
Partnering with Vivian’s Door: A Boost for the Future
Vivian’s Door has been a game-changer for Mr. Reed. They encouraged them to apply for the Inflation Reduction Act Discrimination Financial Assistance program and guided them through the process. “We got $10,000 each, split five ways, which was a big boost,” he shares. It wasn’t just about the money but the respect, recognition, and partnership that made all the difference. With Vivian’s Door in his corner, Mr. Reed is more optimistic than ever about the future for himself and future generations.
He emphasizes that organizations like Vivian’s Door are critical for Black farmers, who often lack the resources and support to navigate their challenges.
A Legacy Worth Preserving
At 75, Mr. Reed isn’t slowing down but is mindful of the future. “I’d love to hand it over to somebody because it is a gold mine,” he says, the pride unmistakable. His land, his legacy, is more than just a piece of property—it’s a piece of history, a testament to the resilience and spirit of a man who’s spent his life cultivating more than crops alone. As the sun sets over those Alabama acres, you can almost hear the land itself whispering thanks to the man who’s cared for it so well.
So, the next time you hear about a farmer, remember it’s not just about what they grow or raise—but about the community they sustain, the traditions they uphold, and the future they nurture.
As we celebrate Mr. Vernon Reed and his family’s work and contribution to the community, we note that the future looks brighter with partners like Vivian’s Door helping to uplift and support farmers like Mr. Reed. It’s a reminder that while many challenges exist, opportunities abound.
If you want to join the Vivan’s Door black farming community, click here!
