Named for a spring located between two dales (hills), Springdale Farm has been an active farm since 1830. It is now owned by Monroe County and operated by Heritage Christian Services. The farm is 200 acres, featuring a working dairy barn, friendly animals, a pond, nature trails, picnic area and playground.
Springdale's Past
In 1876, Springdale Farm was purchased by James Adams and owned by his family for nearly a century. James Adams made Springdale primarily a fruit farm. When his son, Milo, took over, the farm remained prosperous until the 1930s when a major ice storm hit, damaging many of the fruit bearing trees. Milo then converted Springdale to a dairy farm and planted several crops including wheat, oats, corn, peas, string beans and potatoes.
Milo's family enjoyed life on Springdale Farm and often went ice-skating on the duck pond in the winters and swimming during the summers.
In 1960, the Adams family sold Springdale Farm to another farmer and shortly afterwards, it was sold to Monroe County. Recognizing the value of education and community involvement for adults with developmental disabilities, Heritage Christian Services assumed the operation of Springdale in 1993.
Springdale at Present
Today, Springdale Farm remains under the ownership of Monroe County and is a model of government/non-profit collaboration. The farm provides meaningful work opportunities for men and women with developmental disabilities who take care of the animals and the grounds, assist with group tours and greet visitors. The farm is open to the public and brings in over 40,000 guests annually through families, pre-school groups, school classes and other organizations. The demonstration farm/day program combination is unique in that children can learn about the workings of a farm while seeing people with developmental disabilities engaged in valuable community service.
"Springdale Farm is wonderful for Tony. When he went to the farm, his attitude changed. It was easier for him to get up and get going in the morning and he became more positive. They've given him more responsibilities and treated him with respect." -- Sharlene Lehning, mother of Tony, a Springdale Farm day program participant
A Model for Public/Private Collaboration
It is through its partnership with Monroe County, foundations and many local supporters that Heritage is able to open Springdale Farm to the public as a recognized agricultural education center. Heritage Christian Services hopes people will enjoy many visits to Springdale Farm!