James Childs , Sr.,

On Saturday, December 21st, the Blackbelt Small Farmers Ruminate Improvement Association Conference honored James Childs, a renowned farmer from Boligee, Alabama, as the Outstanding Male Farmer in the Blackbelt. At 84 years young, Mr. Childs boasts an impressive 70-year farming career.

Born and raised in a farming family in Sumter County, Alabama, Mr. Childs relocated to Greene County at 31. For him, farming is not just a profession, but a way of life and a means of survival.

Reflecting on the industry’s evolution, Mr. Childs noted, “Farming has changed significantly since I started.” Despite these changes, he remains dedicated to traditional practices, earning recognition as one of Alabama’s finest farmers. Many admirers, including myself, affectionately regard him as the “Greatest Of All Time” (GOAT) in farming.

Mr. Childs’ farm is a family endeavor, with his son James Jr. and grandson Keith actively contributing. James Jr. balances his full-time job with farm work, demonstrating the family’s unwavering commitment.

What sets Mr. Childs apart is his willingness to share expertise and give back to the community. In September, he hosted a community workshop on farming and gardening, teaching participants to grow their own food and establish community gardens. The event featured a complimentary lunch, showcasing Mr. Childs’ generosity.

More recently, Mr. Childs opened his farm to a group from Texas who had heard about his remarkable story and wanted to meet him. For Thanksgiving, he welcomed these visitors and also invited the local community to join in the celebration. During the gathering, he took the opportunity to recognize and honor some of the senior citizens from Mt. Hebron and Boligee, demonstrating his appreciation for his community’s elders.