News

Actions

Family Struggles To Save Local Produce Farm

Posted

If you've visited a produce market in Nashville in the last several decades, you've likely seen the Howell's family logo on a few stands.

"We basically do what Tennessee can grow," Deanna Howell said. 

Squash, zucchini, peppers, and turnip greens have filled their fields throughout the year, but they've been known for one item in particular.

"We're noted for our Bradley tomatoes," Howell said. 

Over several generations of the Howell family, they've perfected the art of growing and harvesting tomatoes. They've sold their produce at the Nashville Farmers Market since 1937. 

"This is a business for us. This is our livelihood," said Howell. However, in October the man behind it all for the last several decades passed away.

"This will be our livelihood now," Howell said in tears. 

Now they're trying to keep the farm afloat.

"It's heartbreaking to know that they've done it for all these years, and it could just be something in the past, something we talk about in memories," said Howell. 

When farmer Howell passed, his family incurred the costs it takes to maintain all 200 acres of the farm.

"We didn't realize what he did to keep this going," she said. 

With the start of the growing season approaching in February, the Howell's have hoped to begin small and grow to what this farm once was.

"Tomatoes back on that table will mean the world to our family,"  Howell said crying. 

A gofundme account was created to help raise donations. If you'd like to help, click here.