About Us
Southern Comfort Berry Farm is located in a small farming community known as the 7th District in St. Mary's County, Maryland. The people around here are "down to earth" folks, always willing to lend a hand.
The 11-acre farm is owned by Kari and Kevin Ritchey. Kevin was born and raised in Pennsylvania, working on a dairy farm through high school with his best friend. Kari was raised in southern Maryland. Her family farm, located 25 minutes north in Bryantown, dates back to the first land grants given out by Lord Baltimore.
Together, Kari and Kevin bought the property in the 7th District out of their love for farming and a deep and personal appreciation for this way of life. They have five children. Tyler, age 18, is in college.
On the farm, Tristan, Tucker, Toby, and Emmamae all help with daily farm chores, such as collecting the eggs and feeding the cattle. Kari says "They help out a lot, and they know what hard work is and that our food doesn't just come from a grocery store. Together, we enjoy the fruits of our labor."
Kevin also works full time as a structural ironworker for local #5 in Washington, D.C. Then he works the farm in the evenings and on weekends. Still, it's a lifestyle near and dear to their hearts.
"This area is rich in farming history," says Kari, "Some locals tell us the original tobacco barn on our property is around 100 years old. We are proud to be the next generation."
" We work our farm as a family. We talk about our goals and how we want to grow. I strongly believe that we need to keep the agriculture community alive and growing, and one way we can do that is by teaching our children—all children—about farming."
"We hope you will come see us soon. Our visitors are our guests, and we'd love to have you come often and get acquainted."
Kari & Kevin