"Not everyone can be a farmer," says 57-year-old John Bowman. "It takes a special breed." John works a 75-acre farm high above Morehead on almost hidden land where horses, cattle and dogs roam free. He grows and harvests corn and tobacco. But the calling he loves may be winding down. After battling against back issues, a stroke and Lyme disease, John's health has affected his ability to work. As his body becomes weaker while working an understaffed farm, John is facing the reality that this season might be his last. He comes from three generations of farmers, beginning with his great-grandfather. "We've farmed since we've come over from Scotland." says his only son, Jonathan, 26. Jonathan works at the Kentucky Pawn and Gun shop in Morehead. Concerned about the high cost of maintaining a farm and his waning interest in the occupation, Jonathan decided he didn't want to continue in his father's footsteps. Instead he has followed an interest in firearms. "We need to find another way to keep taxes paid," he says. With tobacco season slowing down and the need to wait for his corn to dry, John turns to the lucrative business of logging to stay financially afloat. Michael Knipp, 26, was hired by John six-months ago to help maintain the farm, as well as help log Wide Oak, Chestnut and Black Oak for timber. Michael likes working for John. "He's fun and easy to get along with. He's really understanding." Once finished with farming, John plans to live the simple life: hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. He believes farming is not for everyone, but only for someone, like himself, who truly loves the life. "If I were to do it all over again, I wouldn't change a thing." John says.
A rare breed
