Ebony By Nature

Melony Edwards is a first-generation farmer whose ancestors traveled north after emancipation in the journey known as the Great Migration, for a better life away from the fields of sorrow that they had grown to know. After completing degrees in culinary arts and hospitality, and working in all facets of foodservice, Edwards began wondering, “Where does our food come from? And why are there no visible black farmers at the local farmers market?” Edwards found that gaining access to entry-level farming training in the rural landscape was exclusive, but she was determined to learn agricultural skills outside of her urban setting. Her journey of reclaiming farming landed her on a 20-acre mixed vegetable farm on rural Whidbey Island where she immersed herself in small-scale agricultural practices. Edwards spent three years there advancing to farm manager. Now her farming adventures continue as she pursues her own farm vision in launching Ebony By Nature, a textile art farm, and extending her knowledge in seed growing and saving.