Deer Hollow Farm

As we approach the farm we begin to hear sounds of the chickens and the goats and all the 20130311_114207children around. This is probably the noisiest part of the whole Preserve and it is probably due to its popularity. It is a gathering spot for most families with kids who visit the trails. As we turn the corner we will first notice the Cows fenced in on the left hand side of the trail. Once we see the cows we know we are at the Farm. You will also notice a few non-operational Tractors form the early 1920s.  As we continue along we notice two buildings facing each other. The one on the right is Blacksmith Shed, It is a multipurpose room used mainly during summer camp, school year classes, and volunteer events. Next to the Shed is a display of historical farm tools previously used on the farm. The building on the other side is the Historic Grant Cabin this two-room cabin is the oldest remaining structure at Deer Hollow Farm. It is one of a group of buildings known as Grant Ranch. The original cabin was built in the 1850s. Along the same side of the Grant Cabin is the Apple Shed this is also a Grant Family addition. It was built in the late 1800s to store grain and fruit. Now it operates as a nature center. It is also where the Friends of Deer Hollow Farm members meet. It is also a place where you can buy a souvenir to support the farm and remember your visit. Inside the gates of the farm the animals are divided up on both sides of you. On the left side are the chickens and roosters and bunnies, and on the right side are the goats and pigs. In this area you could also buy fresh eggs. Also there is a small walking trail within the farm itself that takes you around the animals. Along the way there are multiple information plaques that offer a little insight and personal information about the specific animals, from the names and ages to their specific purpose in their environment. Behind the animals on the right side of the Barn is the Phoebe Garden, which is used as a hands on teaching tool for children to learn about plant parts, composting, and what makes vegetables grow. In the Garden they grow many things, from celery to curry plants, from rhubarbs to sunflowers. And finally to the right of all of that is the Hay Barn another Grant building built in the early 1900s. This building used to be used to feed and shelter the cattle and to store hay. Now it is being used as a classroom during the school year and summer programs. The Picnic tables inside the barn are open to the public and are an indication of the end of the farm along the preserve trail.

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