The Hahn Farm

Dear Diary,

A bittersweet day when I finally got to visit the Howell Homestead where my grandmother was born and where she was married in 1912.  I met my cousin, son of my grandmother's niece, who now operates the farm but he confided in me that with the death of his son there is no family member who will be able to take on its stewardship.  So, after 241 years (so far) the farm may pass out of family hands.  It was so sad.

Still, he is trying to see if he can put the land into a conservancy so it can never be developed.  I hope he is successful.  At least then the land will remain as it always has been.  I bought some love lavender colored Alpaca wool they raise on the farm to make some mittens.  It will be my connection to the place and it will make a nice winter project.

In my collage, there is a photograph of the farmhouse in 1900.  I use to look at it as a small child and my grandmother would tell me about growing up there.  It is one of my earliest memories and to see the house now was a special moment.  My cousin will receive an award next month for his efforts at building the local food movement and supporting his community.  I am very proud of him; I know my grandmother would be too.

I found more cemeteries and family stones, leaving my tokens and thank you's as I walked around.  My great-great-great grandparent's graves were in another Quaker cemetery.  His mother is my link to the Pilgrims.  Today, a visit to the historical society and then some more exploring and then off to Connecticut for a Blipmeet with DDW!  That will be a real treat!