With an increasing consumer emphasis on and desire for locally grown foods, Boland feels it is imperative for farmers like her to trust, know and support one another.
Fields of Athenry, a 32-acre farm in Purcellville, is the stuff stories are made of. Literally. Farm owner Elaine Boland has written a children’s book inspired by the myriad adventures involving the animals on her farm. Narrated by Sushi, her Cairn terrier and accompanied by lively watercolor illustrations, the stories contain the same reverence and enthusiasm that Boland feels for farm living. Fortunately for Loudoun residents, her enthusiasm tumbles into her business.
When she first went to a Loudoun farmer’s market four years ago, Boland brought a few eggs and some homemade chicken broth; her first thought was, “I should have brought more.” Over the years, she has diligently brought more, expanding the farm’s business to include fresh meat and homemade meals. Today, she participates in four farmer’s markets, bringing fresh lamb, chicken and sausage to her customers. She also sells homemade meals and sauces made from farm-raised meats and organic produce. If customers cannot get to the markets, they can place orders through her website. Local restaurants such as American Flatbread and Tuscarora Mill order meat from her regularly.
With an increasing consumer emphasis on and desire for locally grown foods, Boland feels it is imperative for farmers like her to trust, know and support one another. She believes that the superior quality of farmraised meat is the local farmer’s competitive edge and her growing customer base supports her belief.
Boland happily shares her passion for her work with her customers. The farm welcomes visitors and encourages them to interact with the livestock. During our visit, we walked alongside turkeys that looked as plumed as Renaissance kings, gathered freshly laid eggs and learned how to identify three breeds of sheep. The kids did not want to leave.
“Low lies the fields of Athenry” begins the refrain of the Irish ballad after which Boland named the farm. The verse continues “Our love was on the wing/we had dreams and songs to sing” and yet its mournful past tense seems incongruent with this Loudoun farm bustling in its commitment to quality, community and harmony. For more information on the farm, visit their website at www.fieldsofathenryfarm. com.
Show/hide comment form
