Homestead helpers wanted in 2014!

Hello, I'm reposting this because I can't find anyone
Who truly wants to homestead and learn how to live
Off the grid and farm. Everyone seems to just want a summer camp.
So we'll try again to see if anyone is serious. You don't need experience just be willing to learn and try, and be Honest!
We have a farm with trees barn orchard greenhouse gardening areas horses goat sheep chickens and numerous native "animals" the land has never been sprayed or chemically treated in any way(at least not within the past 120yrs!) We would like to "hand down"
our combined farming, wild crafting, horticulture skills and knowledge. Also how to make a living with the farm. We have "permaculture", "off grid" and "hesteading" experience (one of us 83yrs the other 45yrs) we would like long term apprentices to pass down our combined knowledge and save the farmstead from "developers". There are places to stay, but they may seem "rough" by modern standards. There is power and water but not indoors. Our farm is located in western Washington state.
Please excuse the typos and grammer. Computers are not "my thing"

Best of luck, Betty!

I'm posting here not because I'm the person you're looking for (I'm not), but to help you find the right person.

You've given most of the necessary information:
Where you are
What's the living arrangement
Some of what you're offering
Some of what you're expecting


But it jumps out to me that you left out one basic piece that somebody will want to know before they even pick up the telephone: money. I imagine if you were offering to pay somebody, then you'd have said so. So this is an unpaid apprenticeship? Everybody needs a little money, no matter how thoroughly independent you are (even Pa Ingalls bought salt and coffee, right?). So your apprentices will need a city job, too? Or is it something else, like a profit-share arrangement? You mentioned "make a living with the farm," so that suggests you all produce something that you sell, right? There's money coming in to the farm; is your apprentice getting any of that?

I bet if you'll spell that out, you'll be closer to finding who you need! There are probably folks reading this who would be happy to sign up for a tough but rewarding long-term mentorship, but it's a completely different person who's ready to work for a small stipend, versus somebody who wants an ownership stake in a functioning business, versus someone who wants a school-type experience where they're just there to learn and they work someplace else.

Once you clarify which audience you're speaking to, somebody will probably respond!

Best of luck!

We would split 49% of the profits for them and 51% of the profits for us. And ownership the same.

Betty, I agree with Mike. I see you've posted a split rate. That's a good start. People need to know where you live, how big the farm is, where they'll be sleeping etc. Some photos would help. I would want to know how much the farm has earned in the past few years or the last time it was in full production. You're offering a big percentage, but of what ? If a portion of the land will be transferred eventually, what is the land worth today. These questions may be a bit invasive, but the better applicants will want details. Good luck.

I would love more information

Hi Betty,

I really want to homestead and I appreciate that y'all want to pass on your knowledge to others. I sent you a PM and would love to talk further with you about this.

Nathan J

Hi there, we are a couple looking for exactly what your offering. I have had a lot of farming experience in my life. From raising large and small live stock. My husband is a combat veteran who was a diesel mechanic in the Army. We both have a ton of rebuilding experience and both enjoy nature and living off the land the way nature intended us to. If you are still seeking people please feel free to contact us at (417)621-5724. Thank You and hope to hear from you

Betty Maynard

Hi my name is Sam. I'm fresh on the market. Previously having done mostly volunteer work on CSAs, I've recently decided to commit myself to learning the up/downs/ins/outs of organic farming. I'm 24, enthusiastic and determined, though I would really like to discuss what exactly you are looking for to be sure its the right fit. email: sklaclede@aol.com

This seems like exactly what I am looking for. I am looking for something long term with plenty of opportunities for hands on, hard work learning. Please contact me if you are still looking >> JJNoel12@hotmail.com

Hi Betty,

My girlfriend Devin and I have been WWOOFing for the past year and would like to continue working on farms and experiencing new places. We both love the sound of your farm and hope that you're still looking for help. Spring or summer would be a perfect starting time for us and we would be willing to stay for 3 months or more.

I am 25 years old and passionate about permaculture and alternative lifestyles. I'm from West Chester Pennsylvania and WWOOFed for almost 10 months last year in central California and loved it. Both Devin and I worked with garden beds, seedlings, fruit trees (pruning, picking, mulching and weeding), chickens, tractors, property maintenance (fire prevention, ditching, and home repair), and honey bees (making catcher hives, building frames, harvesting honey, mite checking/prevention, feeding, and reducing hives for winter). I also have a residential carpentry certificate from Delaware County Communinty College.

A few questions:
How many hours of work is required?
Is food provided?
How much is the average profit?
Are you close to a town where the could be part time jobs?

Let me know if you would like to have us on your farm. I have plenty of references to provide need be. My email is dnhuls5@gmail.com. Thanks for taking the time to read this!

This is a very intriguing offer. What kind of housing is available? Would room and board be provided or would we need to make our own accommodations? Also, would you be willing to take on a family? Or are you looking only for couples?
My husband and I are In our twenties with three children. We would love to learn more about what you are offering.

I am looking to Homestead full time year around just wondering if you still  Are looking for  Someone

This is definitely interesting to me! I have been traveling the U.S. in my campervan for about a year now. I would LOVE the opportunity to learn how to homestead! One day, I want to have one of my own, so I'd definitely stay until I learn all the ins and outs, which I imagine would take a good chunk of time.

I don't currently have experience, but I am a fast learner and hard worker.

I do have a 55 lb lab mix who would have to come with me though!

If you have anymore questions, you can email me at kbamiot@gmail.com

Are you guys still looking for help? I’m a 22 year old male built very strong with a super strong back. I have wanted to homestead ever since my dad showed me the ways of outdoor living, and I am now fed up with mainstream America and it is time I learn how to be self sustainable. I am an avid outdoorsman with many working skills, please consider me. I am looking for a new home, and my life needs a change.

Unfortunately the OP did not include any contact information. Ive noticed this happens frequently. If they do not use computers much they might not ever one back. Please include a email address. Thanks

Have you tried to Purple Moossage the OP?

I am interested.  Where is this farm? I would love to expand my knowledge and be able to self sustain. Would love to hear back from you, if this opportunity is still available!

Betty my name is Chris Reagan I would love to Homestead and stay permanently I don't want to leave I'm serious like no joking like I want to really live in the mountains woods and sedra if you still need help on your harm Homestead I'm very strong very smart I know how to farm I know how to turn the animals I know how to operate tractors backhoes track hoes dozers Bobcats pretty-much any heavy machinery I would love to help and earned my place of living in the woods on your homestead for my work and return please contact me at 719-259-8941 or chrisreagan8178@gmail.com

Hello! It’s very difficult to reply when I am this excited! I am the man for the job! 32 years old, 6’4” 200lbs vegetarian, I have a intense work ethic and when I want something done I make energy appear out of thin air! I believe in perseverance and calmness, peace of mind, so that solutions flow like water. I have a electrical engineering degree, I can make the entire thing run off-grid! My latest researches have been find water veins and manually drilling wells, building gravity pumps, irrigation,  grafting, composting.

My email is hgkarmo@gmail.com
Cell is 508 571 6109

I know what I am capable of doing and the energy I carry, I will be an tremendous asset to you, to us.

Hello my name is Robert is an 35 years old and am married no kids , we do have a dog I have been talking to my wife about doing something like this for a while now and am interested, if it’s still available

My names elijah im 27 and really would like to live in community on homestead and help learn and build on the property im interested in any opportunities available please contact me at westelijah.v94@gmail.com

Hello Betty, my name is Kellie. I'm 51 years old, single, raised 2 sons on my own. Im handywoman,  artist, gardener, comedian at times. I have wanted to do this for so many years but never had the opportunity.  I did try going to what sounded like the perfect opportunity,  but unfortunately there was a perverted old man that is nothing more than a predator luring women.  So my first experience with trying this was not very good at all. I am a self sufficient,  strong, capable woman, that knows how to do a lot of different things.  I can build, frame, drywall,  paint, masonry,  block, ceyc. Even work on my own vehicles.  I love to grow anything pretty much and am good at it. I am also very familiar with livestock and hunting/fishing. Great cook too if I dont say so myself.  Bake too, sew, crochet. I've always been a hard worker and always interested in gaining knowledge where I can. If your interested in talking more just send me a message 🙂

Hi Betty!!!

This post is way old and you don't seem to have responded to any of the others inquiring here...  Are you still interested?
It sounds like an amazing place and just the kind of opportunity I've been looking for!  

I have loads of handyman skills, tools, foraging, natural building herbal medicine skills I'm really keen to put to use!

Please do get in touch...  newearth @ keemail.me

Cheers!
Jason

My wife and I may be interested

Hello is the opportunity still available?

Mrs. Maynard, I noticed your post by going back thru premies old posts.  Not sure if you still utilize this platform any longer.  But thought it was worth a try.  I'm located in Kentucky. But on the cusp of taking the leap to off grid. Not much is really needed on my end other than to purchase the land. Have lived most of my life on a homestead, so can thrive. Although, with that said; I by no means know everything there is to know and would love to spend time with you all and receive what you are offering. So, when I do take my step I'll be more rounded. Because there are plenty of things I know that are needed or may arise that does one well to know.  I'd love to talk and see if you think I could be a good match.  I am no spring chicken. 50 years old. But well on the healthy side.  If you would like to talk personally feel free to email me at lcrichardson1971@gmail.com..  and I'll forward our numbers... Wish you all well. Lloyd.

We are a family of four that are year info for a lifestyle like this. We have done some hobby farming, but would love to learn the ropes from a successful operation.
The only thing holding us back is the lack of knowledge. We are both hard working and have a pioneer spirit.
Please let me know if you are still looking for a family to teach and pass on your traditions, skills, and way of life.
My phone number is 816-363-4888 and we could love to chat with you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best~
Holly and Roger Berg

Hey is the offer still available and are cats welcome  

Betty,
I didn't know there were opportunities like this out there, I  grew up on a 211 acre farm in New Hampshire  and I have been trying to find a way to get back to that lifestyle.  I'm in my 40s, and have an interest in your offer, I have been in Commercial and residential construction, can build anything out of anything,  also certified mechanic, diesel and gas, know electric and plumbing,  and love farming, also a wilderness survival instructor. So if you have any room for someone like me. I would love to help you out.
My name is Tony Hamilton

Yes. Im a permaculture designer. Am eager to participate. Im a washintonian also. Happy to help and promote permaculture .
Travis Adams

Hello Betty,

I am currently in college (agricultural school) for horse production and management and graduate in the spring. I am fascinated with homesteading and dream to have my own some day. I would absolutely love the opportunity to learn all that you know and help you out. Please let me know if you are still looking for an employee.

Hi Betty, my name is Adam Palmer I live in Jacksonville FL but am looking to homestead. I was raised on a small farm in upstate NY and really enjoyed that life style. I am 49 years old. Never married and no children at this time. I can be reached at adam26palmer@gmail.com

It's been quite a while, but I just found this post. This would be insane if you replied after this long, but I would absolutely LOVE to live this lifestyle. I feel like it's the only way I can feel happy with my life. I'm just tired of working for others just to barely survive. I LOVE the outdoors, and could spend every second of my life outside.

Hello Betty- is this something you are still offering? I would love to learn from you!

My partner and I would be interested if you could send us information we would love to learn from you both. WE are willing to be dedicated to your farm and it's needs.

Good day to you ,
My name is Crystal Johnson, I am responding to your post you made a few years back , are you still currently looking for someone to come live and tend to the property along with it's live life ? Please contact me at your earliest convenience........
We want to continue live and learn more off the grid lifestyle. My husband is a farmer , we have our own garden of course , and no animals ,at the this time . However we also have children which is our help as well . Please contact me if still available
crystylejohnson7070@gmail.com
Ty for your time .

I have been looking for a place like this to live and work. I have been a home improvement contractor for the last 24 years and I have experience with farms and animals. My son who is 20 is wanting to join as well. He is good at hunting and prepping. Cutting down trees and cutting firewood. He is strong and loves animals and working outside. My email is queena1970@icloud.com contact me if you want to know more about us. Where is your place? We are willing to relocate. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Betty, did you ever find the help you were looking for? If housing and education and immediate salary is included in this opportunity while partnership is being determined and worked out. I am more than interested. Please contact me at liveindelight11@gmail.com
I am no stranger to off grid and split grid living. I hope you find what you are looking for.

Sincerely
Joshua Laxson