The Real Work Karbaumer Farm

photos and words by Ryan Jones of Brooklyn, NY; ryanjonesphoto.com

Klaus Karbaumer lives and works on his Platte City farm along with his wife of seven years, Lee. A bold and opinionated German, Klaus moved to the midwest over 25 years ago from Bavaria and is currently running the only tractor-less farm in Platte County, Missouri operated by draft horses.

Karbaumer Farm tries to “live and grow in harmony with Nature and her seasons” and produces over 50 varieties of chemical-free, organic vegetables for the community, providing a CSA (community supported agriculture) for the greater Kansas City area.

Karbaumer farm is especially unique because of Klaus’ steadfast dedication to upholding the tradition and humanity of old-world farming. “No one does the real work anymore,” Klaus says. He works tirelessly and lives passionately; he is a headstrong fighter for what he believes is right.

A vocal and bold anomaly, Klaus is a huge character in a small town.