It’s 2025, but, for the next two to three weeks, I’ll continue to say it’s 2024 because my brain hasn’t quite accepted that it’s 2025. For those of you who are new here I’m a writer and content creator. In 2021, during Covid, I had the good fortune of meeting Mr Bat, a farmer who lived off grid in Trinidad. Before Mr Bat died in a vehicular accident just after Pool II in Caura, he introduced me to his neighbour, Farmer Harry. Like Mr Bat, Farmer Harry lives off grid. Quite a chap! Candid; Blunt; Resourceful; Farmer Harry lives in a humble home of wood, one that termites are slowly destroying.
Through Farmer Harry’s work on YouTube, a number of subscribers have reached out. In 2023, when I asked him on camera if he could visit one country in the world where would he go, Farmer Harry instantly said Antigua. Through his hard work and monetary support from subscribers Farmer Harry reached Antigua in 2024. A special mention and to Suzy’s Roti Parlour in Brooklyn for their kind support in making Farmer Harry’s dream a reality. If you’re in the area please visit Suzy’s Roti Parlour.
Now it’s 2025. On Thursday 9th January, 2025, I asked Farmer Harry about his ambitions for the year. He expressed his interest in starting his house. I asked him if he’s comfortable with me documenting the experience. He said yes. God willing I hope to take you on the journey, sharing the ups and downs, expecting nothing of you, simply sharing the journey. So, to be clear, donations are not expected but welcomed. You can watch the first step of the journey in the YouTube video below.
The structure is straightforward; it attaches to the kitchen of the existing house. Measuring 32′ x 32′,
There’s a concrete floor or slab. The house will sit on this concrete slab and measures 26′ x 26 with a half wall. 16 C-channels will support a gable roof. Bit by bit, Farmer Harry will construct this home, eventually concrete boards above the half wall to enclose the structure. Eventually the existing structure will be demolished.
Below is the material list, Farmer Harry gave me.
| Quantity | Units | Description |
| 5 | Lengths | 1/4″ steel (smooth) |
| 10 | Lengths | 1/2″ steel (smooth) |
| 28 | Lengths | C-channel |
| 12 | Lengths | Z Purling |
| 300 | Bricks | Red brick |
| 1 | Yards | Plastering sand |
| 500 | Units | 2″ Purling Screws |
| 50 | Bags | Cement |
| 12 | Sheets | 15′ Corrugated Roof Sheets |
The next step is to source estimates. As time and health allows I’ll keep you posted. Cheers.