Across the Fence Special Juneteenth 2024 Program:

This double-length episode showcases:

• Lydia Clemmons, Executive Director, Clemmons Family Farm
• Stacie Fagan, VP of Philanthropy, Vermont Community Foundation
• Devin Coleman, State Architectural Historian, Vermont Division for Historic Preservation
• Stacy Cibula, Agriculture Programs Director, VHCB
• Harmony Edosomwan, Owner, Harmony’s Kitchen

About Clemmons Family Farm:

The Clemmons Family Farm, one of Vermont’s largest African American-owned farms, was purchased by Lydia and Dr. Jack Clemmons in 1962. It spans six historic buildings, a residence, and 128 acres of farmland, forests, and ponds. As a significant landmark on Vermont’s African American Heritage Trail, the farm embodies living history.

Preserving Black historical and cultural sites like the Clemmons Family Farm is essential. Rather than selling the property as Lydia and Dr. Jack Clemmons approached their 100th birthdays, the Clemmons family chose to establish it as a Black arts and cultural center, benefiting both Vermont and the nation. This farm symbolizes resilience, dedication, and innovation, with a legacy that must be preserved for future generations.

In 2023, the Black-led nonprofit Clemmons Family Farm, Inc. purchased the farm. It will continue to expand its role as a major arts and culture center and historic site, supporting over 260 Vermont artists of the African diaspora.