Kendrick Ransome is a fourth-generation farmer, committed to continuing the legacy of his family’s land, first acquired by his great-grandfather in the early 1900s. His great-grandfather raised livestock, tobacco, and cultivated fruits and vegetables on the North Carolina farm, which became a cornerstone of his family’s heritage. After his great-grandfather’s passing, the farming tradition was met with challenges, as the systemic barriers placed on Black farmers during that era made it difficult to sustain. Despite the family’s best efforts, most of the farm was leased to larger operations, however, the spirit of self-sustained farming remained.
In 2017, Kendrick reignited his great-grandfather’s legacy with the establishment of Golden Organic Farm. The farm was created not only to produce crops but to represent the enduring strength of Black agricultural traditions, grounded in sustainable practices. While the term “organic” now carries specific regulatory meanings, the decision to use it reflects a deeper connection to the ancestral ways of farming that have long been a part of Kendrick’s family lineage. Golden Organic Farm’s mission is to maintain these traditions, enrich the soil, and ensure the land, rich in history, continues to benefit both the community and future generations. The farm specializes in producing pasture-raised pork and is directly connected to fresh whole foods. Golden Organic Farm currently offers seeded watermelon and watermelon juice as well as direct-to-customer meat boxes and CSAs.
Kendrick’s passion extends beyond farming to youth and community development. He is actively working with local schools, municipalities, and grassroots organizations in North Carolina to integrate farming education into community-focused programs. Kendrick believes it is crucial, particularly for young Black students, to see themselves as leaders in agriculture. He envisions Golden Organic Farm growing into an agricultural incubator for young BIPOC and minority farmers where together, the community cultivates crops and a new generation of land stewards.
To learn more about Golden Organic Farm, please visit www.goldenorganicfarm.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
