As Black History Month comes to a close, learn about Jireh Family Farm and other Black farmers in N.C.
Did you know Black History Month actually began as a week? It was first celebrated in 1926 following its creation by Carter G. Woodson’s Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The goal of both the association and the week was to recognize the contributions of African Americans to society. The week kept that theme but was expanded to the entire month of February in 1976 by President Gerald R. Ford.
As we reflect on the legacy, resilience and contributions honored during Black History Month, we are reminded that history is not only something we look back on, it is something being written every day. One powerful example can be found right here in North Carolina, where Immanuel and Valarie Jarvis of Jireh Family Farm are proving that tradition, innovation and determination continue to shape the future of agriculture.
The couple first became interested in farming after the heartbreaking loss of Valarie’s brother, Roland. Roland’s passing prompted the couple to more closely examine what they were eating and how that food affected their health. Their research inspired the couple to seek local, pasture-raised options. Finding a gap in local choices, they began their farming careers in 2017 with a small homestead.
Today, their homestead has grown to include chickens, pigs, goats, turkeys and cows, all raised using regenerative, homeopathic methods. They strive to bring nutrient-dense, sustainable nutrition to their community. “There’s a deep satisfaction in watching seeds sprout, animals thrive on open pasture and the land respond to regenerative practices —knowing that what we raise becomes nourishing, clean meat for our table and for others,” Immanuel said. You can purchase their meats, eggs, herbal teas and Jireh Family Farm merch at their farm store. The store is open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to dark and Sunday from 1 p.m. to dark.
The farm has a variety of other offerings as well. For example, they are open by reservation for interactive farm tours. You can also work with them to host a variety of custom events for up to 30 guests on the farm. As if that weren’t enough, you can even rent their pool for a relaxing afternoon or a fun-filled pool party.
As you can see, the couple’s passion for regenerative, homeopathic agriculture runs deeper than just practicing it. “We love teaching and inspiring others about the joys of agriculture,” Immanuel said. “Through summer camps, homesteading classes, farm tours and workshops at Jireh Farm Foundation, we share how working the land is profoundly therapeutic.” Their farm-based summer camp will run for six weeks in the summer of 2026 and has spots remaining for ages 5-12.
As you can imagine, managing so many facets can be challenging, but Immanuel spoke to us about what he’s gained from it all. “You can’t rush plants to grow or animals to mature – they follow nature’s schedule. We plant in spring, care for things through summer, harvest in fall and rest in winter. This teaches us to wait, trust the process and keep showing up with steady care,” Immanuel said. “Most of all, we’ve seen that God made everything on earth for our health, strength and healing,” Immanuel continued. The couple is committed to sharing these values and is profoundly committed to their community.
“Watching a child collect their first egg, an adult learn to preserve food or a family reconnect with nature reminds us why we started: farming isn’t just about food; it’s about healing, resilience and passing on a legacy of stewardship and joy,” Immanuel said.
Wondering About More Black Farmers in N.C.?
Austin-Kidd Farm in Huntersville is co-owned by Daniel Austin and Jova Jamison. The farm produces eggs, honey, beef, tallow candles and various produce. You can look for them at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market year-round and the North Meck Community Farmers Market in the summertime.
Footprints in the Garden in Mount Olive is another shining example. The farm is owned and operated by the mother-daughter team of Carrie and Erin Martin. The land was originally purchased by Carrie’s husband’s great-grandfather, Harry Martin. Harry self-emancipated, served in the Civil War and eventually bought the land that has now become Footprints in the Garden. Today, Footprints in the Garden produces a variety of fruits, veggies, and herbs. The farm also hosts community events.
A great place to support a variety of Black farmers is the Black Farmers’ Market, which operates on Sundays from April to November. The market aims to provide market access and resources to current and future Black farmers and entrepreneurs. The group’s markets, events and other initiatives are open to all community members. The market is hosted at Durham Tech on East Lawson Street on 1st and 3rd Sundays and on Rock Quarry Road in Raleigh on 2nd and 4th Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
As Black History Month comes to a close, we are reminded that agriculture in North Carolina is more than an industry, it is a living legacy. From generations who farmed against extraordinary odds to today’s producers leading with innovation and resilience, Black farmers have helped shape the land, the markets and the communities that define our state.
As we look ahead to a new growing season, may we continue to support and uplift the farmers who cultivate not only our land, but our shared future.