Ida Huddleston and her daughter, Delsia Bare, have turned down an offer of roughly $26 million for part of their family’s farmland, which was being considered for a new data center. Huddleston declined an offer of $60,000 per acre for her 71 acres in Mason County, Kentucky, from an unnamed Fortune 100 company believed to be involved in artificial intelligence. Had she accepted, she would have made about $4.26 million. Meanwhile, Bare rejected a proposed $48,000 per acre for her 463 acres, totaling more than $22 million. To put it in perspective, local farmland values are only around $6,000 per acre.
The two women seem determined to preserve the land that has supported their family and contributed to the nation for many years. Their decision reflects a deep-rooted attachment to their land, which embodies the essence of the American spirit. It’s not merely about financial gain for them. Huddleston referred to the continued offers as “mind harassment,” expressing her frustration over the relentless pursuit.
“I don’t want your money, I don’t need your money,” Huddleston stated, adding that she feels for her community, which would be affected by such changes. She rejects the notion that they are outdated farmers, affirming their awareness of the dangers of losing farmland and resources.
When discussing the potential job opportunities that the project could bring, Huddleston reacted skeptically, calling it “a scam.” “They’re lying,” she said, adding that she doesn’t believe their claims hold any truth.
Listening to Bare, it’s clear that she views the land as a vital part of her identity, a birthright that’s connected to her family’s legacy. “Staying on this land and feeding a nation, $26 million doesn’t mean anything,” she emphasized, recalling how her ancestors sustained their community during tough times.
She likened her connection to the land to that of Scarlett O’Hara from “Gone with the Wind,” stating that as long as the land supports her, she’ll feel invincible. They aren’t alone in their resistance; other local landowners, like Andy Grosser and his father, also recently turned down nearly $8 million for their property at the same proposed site.
Interestingly, there’s criticism from some quarters about their decision. For example, a writer named Billy Binion labeled their choice as foolish, arguing that accepting such a generous offer, which is ten times the land’s worth, would be wise, pointing out that they could face eminent domain and receive much less in that scenario.
However, critics miss a key perspective: Huddleston and Bare possess something invaluable—legacy and wisdom that have been cultivated over generations. This land has provided for countless families, especially during the hardships of the Great Depression. They view its agricultural use as far more significant than accepting a one-time payout. Farmers like them form the backbone of America, and their dedication to preserving this heritage cannot easily be replaced. Once it’s lost, it’s gone for good.
