In the novel Of Mice and Men, what kind of work does crooks's father do?

While Crooks talks to Lennie one night while the others have gone into town, Crooks tells Lennie

I was born right her in California.  My old man had a chicken ranch, 'bout ten acres..."

Crooks says that his family was the only black family around.  When his father did not like white children coming around, Crooks says he now understands why not.