A study of the characteristics of African American farm systems in the least developed counties of South Carolina

This study explores why the number of farms operated by African Americans continue to decrease dramatically in South Carolina. It examines how ownership of farmland put African American farmers at risk. It specifically examines African American farm systems in six counties of South Carolina ranked among the 17 least developed counties in the state. These counties have the highest ranking in the state for unemployment rate and the lowest median household income. They are often isolated, having experienced many economic challenges. Information regarding African American farm systems in South Carolina is not abundant, therefore, this study is exploratory in nature, and will fill a void within the existing knowledge of Sociology and African American studies.;This study is qualitative in design, representing a comparison of African American farm systems to White American farm systems of various sizes. The data were gleaned from in-depth interviews. The questions and responses were guided by typical characteristics of African American farm systems in South Carolina. Thirty African American and six White American farmers were interviewed. The findings are case studies of these farmers and their farm systems. The data supported the results as qualitative research.;There is needed research in this area of study. The African American farm systems and the White American farm systems are continuously declining in numbers, thereby creating additional social and economic challenges for rural counties in South Carolina.