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More Than a Farm—A Recognized Tennessee Legacy

  • Writer: James Butler Jr
    James Butler Jr
  • 11 minutes ago
  • 1 min read

The story of Butler Farms is not only preserved through family memories and historical research—it has also been officially recognized by the State of Tennessee.

Butler Farms is proudly designated as a Tennessee Century Farm, an honor awarded to farms that have remained in continuous agricultural production for more than 100 years. This recognition celebrates generations of dedication, perseverance, and stewardship of the land.

Receiving the Century Farm marker was a proud milestone for our family because it honors not only the land itself, but the generations who worked it through changing times, hardships, and opportunities.

Featured in Tennessee's Frontier Century Farms

Our farm is also featured in Tennessee's Frontier Century Farms: An Enduring Legacy of Family, Farming, and Community, written by Dr. Carroll Van West, Tennessee State Historian.

Having Butler Farms included in this publication places our family's story among Tennessee's most historically significant farms. The book documents farms that have shaped the agricultural heritage of the state and preserves these stories for future generations.

Our inclusion is especially meaningful because Butler Farms traces its beginnings to emancipated African Americans who transformed freedom into land ownership, agriculture, and a lasting family legacy.

Sixth Generation Farmer Oscar Butler
Sixth Generation Farmer Oscar Butler

A Living History

Unlike many historical landmarks that simply commemorate the past, Butler Farms continues to be a working farm.

Today we continue that legacy by:

  • Raising premium Angus beef

  • Practicing responsible land stewardship

  • Producing wholesome food for families

  • Preserving over 150 years of African American agricultural history

  • Sharing our family's story with future generations

The Century Farm designation reminds us that history is not only something we remember—it is something we continue to build every day.

 
 
 

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