Tom O’Neal founded Signal Mountain Farm in 1998, starting with just a half-acre of raised beds and a vision for sustainable, independent agriculture. With no outside credit or a computer, Tom grew the farm slowly and deliberately, expanding to 100 acres on Signal Mountain. His approach centers on succession planting and adaptability, always finding ways to build on what he's previously accomplished.

Tom paired his passion for traveling with agriculture as he grew up. He’s worked on farms in Southeast Asia, Morocco, and South America often traveling by his favorite method – motorcycle.

After years abroad, Tom landed in Signal Mountain, TN, on his family’s land. When asked why he stays in rural Tennessee, he said “I can’t leave.” He finds the property so beautiful, and his roots here run so deep that he stays and cultivates a life and a farm in Signal Mountain.

Today, Tom manages the farm with a focus on heirloom tomatoes, vegetables and land stewardship as Signal Mountain faces increasing development pressure. Tom continues to anchor his life and work on the mountain.