Tucked away in the rolling hills of Missouri lies a marvel of modern homesteading—Joshua Morris’s 360-acre off-grid paradise. A retired Army Ranger turned self-sufficiency guru, Josh has spent over two decades perfecting his craft, turning this sprawling property into what he calls the “ultimate survival homestead.” And let me tell you, it’s not your average backyard garden with a chicken coop. Think livestock, renewable energy systems, and a house built to survive the apocalypse.
A Home Built for the Ages
The crown jewel of Josh’s homestead is an Earth-sheltered home, a masterpiece of engineering and design. This isn’t your typical underground bunker. Picture a cozy, sustainable fortress with double-layered waterproofing, rigid insulation, and walls so thick they laugh in the face of water leaks and weather. Inspired by the Earthships of New Mexico, Josh made critical improvements to ensure durability and comfort. With a background in geological engineering, he designed a structure that balances robust security with livable elegance.
The house was a labor of love, taking 15 years to complete. Its inner shell is made from block and surface-bonding cement reinforced with fibers for extra strength. On the outside, decorative tumbled concrete blocks lend an aesthetic touch, blending functionality with style. This home is not just a shelter; it’s a statement of resilience.
The Heart of Homesteading
But this homestead is more than a fortress—it’s a fully functional, self-sustaining ecosystem. Josh’s family raises grass-fed beef and goats, maintains sprawling orchards, and grows an impressive variety of crops. Gardening operations are extensive, ensuring a constant supply of fresh produce. Renewable energy systems power the property, making it entirely independent from the grid.
One highlight of the tour is the livestock operation, where animals are raised humanely and sustainably. Josh takes pride in his regenerative approach, ensuring the land stays fertile and productive for generations to come.
Prepared for Anything
When you step onto this homestead, you can’t help but feel a sense of security. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic turmoil, or a zombie apocalypse (hey, you never know), this property is ready. The house’s design includes disaster preparedness features like double-layered waterproofing and strategic layouts for defense. As Josh says, “Security is one of those things you want to consider.”
Lessons from a Master
Josh isn’t just living the homestead dream—he’s sharing it with the world. His book, Thrive in the Coming Dark Age: How to Build the Ultimate Survival Homestead, is a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and strategies for aspiring homesteaders. From building resilient shelters to mastering permaculture gardening, the book offers a roadmap to independence.
