Ruby’s Happy Farm, situated 30 minutes north of Nashville, is a vibrant community hub built upon generations of resilience, says Ashley Brooks, president of Ruby’s Happy Farm.
“Our family’s agriculture journey began with our grandparents during the era of sharecropping,” Brooks says. “Despite the challenges with sharecropping, they persevered, ultimately achieving a significant milestone in 1958 by purchasing an 11-acre farm for $1,530. This pivotal moment, 66 years ago, laid the groundwork for the thriving farm we operate today.”
In 2019, Brooks transformed the farm into an agritourism destination, blending public health with agriculture where the farm hosts events like the Feel Good Festival, which educates on Juneteenth and agriculture, and the Happy Camper Farm Fest for teenagers. They also organize the She Grows event for women in agriculture.
“When I decided to turn the farm into an agritourism destination, I combined my background in public health with a love of farming and education,” Brooks says. “I kind of merged the two disciplines when I reimagined the farm, and here we are today.”
Building on this rich agricultural heritage, Brooks says the farm’s mission is to enrich lives through education, wellness and meaningful connections, saying they achieve this through:
- Chemical-free crops: Ensuring the health and safety of our community and the environment.
- Engaging in-person events: Fostering community interaction and creating memorable experiences.
- Education: Promoting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle through knowledge and practical skills.
On the micro farm, Brooks grows on six acres, growing vegetables and flowers throughout the year with the help of about 15 volunteers. This year’s crops include sunflowers, summer squash, beans as well as buckwheat. Cover crops are important, she says, because they don’t use chemicals.
Despite challenges from droughts and wildlife, the farm grows various crops and uses regenerative techniques.
“Our grandparents produced tobacco and corn. They also raised cows and pigs (the small pond on the farm today was built for the cows),” Brooks says. “Our family used natural fertilizer techniques such as spreading cow and pig manure on the crops. However, they used artificial chemicals to control pests. Today, we add amendments to the soil such as worm castings; companion plants such as buckwheat are sown, which helps to control pests.”
Brooks says she honors her farm roots by working the land today while expanding its offerings on the farm such as a space for learning, events and community.
Upcoming events include the Feel Good Festival in honor of Juneteenth, a Happy Camper Farm Fest on July 11 for teenagers, to train the next generation of farmers, then in September, the farm hosts Women in Ag for women interested in agricultural careers or wanting to learn how to grow their own food. Interested visitors can view the Ruby’s Happy Farm events page for a listing of upcoming festivals and workshops.
