This month, our farmer spotlight focuses on Anthony Cole of Jasperwood Farm, a fifth-generation farmer deeply connected to the land in Leicester, North Carolina. From cultivating his family’s ancestral plot to spearheading community initiatives, Anthony’s narrative unfolds as a testament to resilience, unwavering commitment, and profound dedication to both agricultural traditions and community welfare.
Sustaining Generations: Anthony Cole’s Farming Legacy and Community Commitment
Past
Rooted in a farming legacy spanning five generations, Anthony Cole traces his family’s journey from England to the Jersey Shore during the 1600s, where ancestors eventually fought alongside General George Washington during the Revolutionary War. Settling in Leicester, North Carolina, his great-grandfather acquired a significant plot, a piece that has remained in the family for generations.
After college, Anthony assumed the responsibility of stewarding this familial land, initially balancing his efforts with a university job. However, the impact of the 2008 recession prompted a pivotal shift, compelling him to transition into full-time farming.
Present
Anthony’s engagement in community initiatives began with the establishment of community gardens in Asheville. Seeking efficiency in food production, he redirected the skills of volunteers from these gardens to his farm, allowing them to grow food on a larger scale. This effort led to a partnership with Bounty and Soul, addressing specific community needs, particularly the demand for staple vegetables like potatoes and cabbage during the winter months.
When asked about his commitment to serving surrounding communities, Anthony indicated that he is motivated by an acute awareness of the dilemmas individuals face—decisions between keeping their house warm or choosing to eat a meal. Anthony draws from personal experiences when he found himself in need of assistance, expressing gratitude for those who offered help during those times. A testament to his family’s grit, he shared the story of his grandfather, a man who grew up in a house with dirt floors, who would proudly emphasize that no matter how tough times were, his mother made sure the family never missed a meal, even if it was a single roasted turnip for dinner. In an era of abundance, such values become poignant reminders of what truly matters.
Future
Looking ahead, Anthony envisions a future where farms address pressing issues today, preventing their transference to the next generation. This involves preserving greenspace, ensuring clean water sources, and leveraging each farm’s unique resources to serve the community effectively. Passionate about involving young minds in agriculture, Anthony encourages the acquisition of skills such as food cultivation and preservation at an early age. As agriculture grapples with ongoing challenges, Anthony sees collaboration as the linchpin for a better future. Adapting to inevitable changes requires a united effort and a shared vision. His optimism is rooted in the belief that preserving farmland secures the potential for future cultivation and production. The prospect of a resilient and sustainable future is kindled by strategic collaborations, exemplified in partnerships like the one forged with Jasperwood Farm and Bounty & Soul. In 2023, Anthony has nurtured, cultivated, and donated over 10,000 pounds of hearty cabbage and potatoes that will nourish our community during the leaner months of winter. Not only is Anthony a farm partner, but he is also a dear friend and we feel honored to work alongside him to increase food access for all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Farmer Anthony Cole for his extraordinary generosity throughout the past two seasons and we look forward to continuing this partnership in 2024.