Dr. Patience Fielding

Nestled in Beaverdam, Virginia, Esther Manor Farm stands as a beacon of resilience, hope and healing forged amidst the trials of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the racial reckonings in 2020. Founded by Dr. Patience Fielding, a Cameroon-born, African-American woman, this farm embodies a rich tapestry of tradition, sustainability, and community. 

Amidst the chaos of shutdowns and food shortages, Dr. Fielding found solace in the rolling fields of rural Virginia, reminiscent of her childhood on her grandmother’s farm in Bali, Cameroon. There, she grew up with the art of herbalism and savored the flavors of nutrient-rich local cuisine. Her grandmother had remedies for several illnesses, which included boiling lemongrass to soothe fevers, creating mixtures of papaya and guava leaves to relieve constipation, and preparing “mayanga” oil out of palm nuts to use as a body moisturizer. Dr. Fielding vividly remembers eating some of her grandmother’s favorite African dishes, which were filled with fiber and antioxidants and provided the nutrients needed for one’s growing body to flourish. 

Esther Manor Farm's mission is to provide healthy and nutritious produce to the community and create an all-inclusive culture steeped in community fellowship and farming. Fueled by memories of her grandmother's remedies and dishes, Dr. Fielding embarked on a mission to grow nutrient-rich foods, create a space for healing, and facilitate a hub of cross-cultural interaction where visitors can not only savor locally grown produce but also partake in the rich tapestry of traditions that define African agriculture. 

Thus, Esther Manor Farm was born, a testament to Dr. Fielding’s vision of fostering not only healthy eating but also cultural exchange. Specializing in crops like Bitter Leaf, Njama Njama, and Waterleaf, the farm not only cultivates sustenance but also nurtures sustainable farming practices. 

Esther Manor Farm upholds ancestral knowledge by preserving the lessons taught by both Dr Fielding’s Grandmother and Mother. Each practice, from seed selection to harvest rituals, embodies the wisdom passed down through generations, fostering a deep connection to the land. By honoring this heritage, Esther Manor Farm not only sustains its agricultural productivity but also cultivates a profound respect for the wisdom of those who came before. 

In addition to its agricultural endeavors, Esther Manor Farm serves as a cultural epicenter, hosting an annual farm-to-table event every fall that celebrates the fusion of African and American cuisine and cultures. This event showcases the rich traditions and customs of Africa, offering guests a sensory journey through the flavors and heritage that define Dr. Fielding’s vision. The farm-to-table event culminates in a nostalgic storytelling session around the crackling bonfire, reminiscent of Dr. Fielding’s cherished childhood evenings preparing food with her Grandmother. As the stories unfold under the starlit sky, attendees find themselves immersed in the rich tapestry of familial lore, fostering a deep appreciation for the farm's heritage and its enduring legacy. 

Furthermore, Esther Manor Farm's commitment to health extends beyond the plate. A research study conducted by the National Institute of Health has highlighted the farm's Bitter Leaf for its demonstrated anti-cancer and anti-diabetes properties, adding another layer of significance to the farm’s mission. Dr Fielding’s grandmother thrived on a diet of fufu, njama njama, bitterleaf, okra, jute leaves enjoying robust health throughout her long life—a testament to the nutritional richness of these staple crops. Her daily consumption exemplifies the profound nourishment provided by these nutrient-dense foods, underscoring their significance in sustaining vitality and well-being. 

In a world fraught with uncertainty, Esther Manor Farm stands tall as a beacon of resilience, unity, and unwavering hope. Dr. Patience Fielding's transformative journey from adversity to abundance not only inspires but also embodies the farm's ethos of using food and farming to build community resilience. Through her visionary leadership and the farm's commitment to fostering connections, Esther Manor Farm illuminates a path toward a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 

To learn more about Esther Manor Farm, please visit www.esthermanorfarm.com. 

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