In the heart of historic Lyles Station, Indiana, lies a thriving legacy of agriculture and community spirit that continues to flourish. Denise Greer Jamerson, a fifth-generation farmer, and her family have nurtured their farm through dedication, resilience, and a profound sense of identity.
In this Agripreneur Spotlight article, we will explore the mission of her family’s operation, Legacy Taste of the Garden, the impact it has had on the community, the challenges her family has faced, and the invaluable insights she offers to the next generation.
Humble Beginnings in Lyles Station
Farming isn’t new to Denise, and as a matter of fact, she was born into it. She grew up on Greer Farms, a fully operational farm that specialized in livestock, produce, and row-crop operations located in Lyles Station, Indiana, the last remaining African American farming settlement in the state. This settlement is featured in the Smithsonian’s African American Museum of Heritage and Culture, as well as her father, Norman Greer, who continues to farm their land that has been in the Greer family since before the Civil War.
“Farming has always brought me joy. Working with the animals, growing the food, and watching my dad do his work has made me proud to be a farmer,” Denise says. She recalls her father providing mentorship to the young men he employed on the farm and the happiness that fresh produce brought to visitors.
Denise later moved to Indianapolis and maintained a connection to her roots. While there, she often brought fresh fruits and vegetables back to the city, sharing them with family and friends. This evolved into selling truckloads of melons that her father and uncles would bring from the farm. Denise eventually moved back to Lyles Station to help her parents with Greer Farms and to raise her sons within the local community.
A Mission Beyond Agriculture
In 2016, when Denise’s son DeAnthony expressed interest in starting a produce business, it sparked the creation of Legacy Taste of the Garden. This produce farm and educational hub was born out of Denise’s desire to continue her family’s agricultural heritage while addressing the needs of her community.
Denise’s upbringing on her family’s farm also instilled in her the understanding that the land is about more than just soil and is a vital part of identity, security, and freedom. With these principles, Legacy Taste of the Garden operates as a diverse produce farm that not only grows fruits and vegetables but also includes a farm stand and a demonstration area for conservation practices.
This hands-on approach allows the farm to serve as a living classroom where community members can learn about farming methods, sustainability, and the importance of nutrition, ultimately transforming their interaction with food sources. The venture also aggregates and delivers fresh produce around the state and region.
Community Involvement and Cultivating Together
The heart of Denise’s work beats strongest in the Lyles Station community. Being in this field her entire life, she quickly realized that farmers needed a voice and access to programs to help them grow and sustain their farms.
Under her father’s guidance and inspired by her family’s legacy, Denise emphasizes the significance of advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration. Her family hosts community events, farm tours, and educational workshops that promote hands-on learning opportunities for young people and adults alike.
By creating an environment where knowledge is shared and relationships are built, Legacy Taste of the Garden acts as a beacon of hope that uplifts not just the farmers but the entire community. Denise’s vision includes reaching out to the youth to teach them the importance of agriculture while inviting them to participate in farm activities, making farming a shared journey.
Denise also takes pride in being a member of a historic community. One of her proudest achievements is the restoration of the Lyles Consolidated School, recognized at the Smithsonian for its role in preserving the stories of the farming community. This school serves as a living museum, showcasing the rich heritage of Black farming in Indiana.
Denise is also proud to be recognized on the national Farm Aid stage in 2023, where she watched and represented her father, who was honored as a featured farmer. “I was so proud because I had witnessed his hard work, and he deserves [this recognition] for his steadfastness, strength, and resilience”, she shared.
Navigating the Struggles of Black Farmers
Despite its rich history, the family’s journey has not been without obstacles. The 1985 farm crisis hit hard, especially for Black farmers, leading to a drastic decline in their numbers.
Denise and her parents faced significant challenges during this time, including the loss of over 180 acres due to predatory practices. Her parents fought for years to save their farm, and the fight to preserve it tested their resolve.
Throughout these challenges, Denise witnessed firsthand the importance of resiliency. Her parents’ unwavering spirit and their wisdom allowed them to continue to have a viable farming operation despite the barriers they faced. This period shaped Denise’s understanding of the systemic hurdles facing Black farmers, fueling her dedication to ensuring they have equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Embracing the Agricultural Journey
Denise wants the younger generation to engage with all facets of farming, and her wisdom for aspiring farmers is simple yet profound. “Agriculture connects to every aspect of our lives, and the rewards, though hard-earned, are plentiful.”
For those with land, she emphasizes the importance of nurturing it because a healthy relationship with the earth leads to abundant returns. “If you take care of the land, it’ll take care of you.” She says that whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just stepping into the world of agriculture, remember that every effort contributes to a greater purpose.
Denise also encourages aspiring farmers to seek out mentors who can guide them through the complexities of farming. With farmers like her father as role models, she believes that young individuals can learn not only the technical skills necessary for farming but also the values of determination, stewardship, and fostering community.
A Legacy to Nurture and Share
Denise Greer Jamerson’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and education. Through Legacy Taste of the Garden, she cultivates not just crops but also hope, celebrating the rich history of Black farmers in historic Lyles Station. By focusing on education, advocacy, and sustainability, Denise and her family continue to inspire others, proving that farming is more than about the food we grow but revolves around the future we build together.
As we honor the legacy of Black farmers, let’s all remember to support local agriculture and uplift the voices that have historically been silenced. The Greer family’s commitment to preserving their heritage and fostering community ties serves as a model for what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.
To learn more about Denise’s journey and Legacy Taste of the Garden, please visit:
Website: www.legacytasteofthegarden.com
Facebook: Legacy Taste of the Garden
Instagram: @legacytasteofthegarden
LinkedIn: Legacy Taste of the Garden, LLC
