Howdy Everybody!

I wanted to extend a warm welcome as you get ready for your farm weekend. Carriage Stone Farm is the second chapter of a dream I had to move to the country, breathe life back into an old farm, and share it with others. I’m truly proud to welcome you here.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a look at our farm experiences below:
https://www.madelinefarms.com/farm-experiences

This is a real, working farm. You’ll see about 150 Black Angus cattle grazing in the surrounding fields, and that number grows often with new calves arriving. The red barn in the distance now serves as housing for our farmhands, but it still carries the spirit of its past.

The land itself has hosted families for over 250 years. You’ll find remnants of that history throughout your stay, from the stone ruins of the original outdoor kitchen and cellar, to the fireplace hearth along the side of the home. The property was first settled by a Dutch Mennonite family who came here in the mid-1700s seeking peace during a time of religious conflict in Europe.

The farmhouse you’re staying in was built in two parts. The front section dates back to 1809, and the rear portion was added in 1850 by accomplished architects from Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Take a moment to notice the craftsmanship and the strength of a home that has stood for centuries.

You’ll also see the red outbuilding, which once housed three enslaved individuals, a difficult but important part of this land’s history. The Swisher Barn, with its massive timber frame, was built in 1810 and expanded in 1890.

Be sure to look for the original carriage stones near the driveway, they were used to help travelers step up into their carriages. The stone columns near the home and barn once marked the entrance and served as hitching posts for horses. The original road used to run along the opposite side of the house, and if you look closely, you can still trace it as it winds through the woods behind the barn.

You’re welcome to explore the exterior of the old barn, but please do not enter for safety reasons. If you head out that way, bring a buddy along, it’s all part of the adventure, but we like to keep things safe.

There’s currently a historian from Bridgewater College working on a book about the farm, uncovering its full story. Many guests leave here feeling changed in some small but meaningful way. I hope the same is true for you.

The most recent owners lovingly renovated the home in the 1980s, and you’ll notice touches of that era, especially in the bathrooms and foyer. They had a flair for glamour (very Dynasty-inspired), and we chose to preserve that charm rather than erase it.

The home’s heating and cooling system reflects its many layers of history. There are multiple thermostats throughout the house, and to keep things simple, we’ve preset them to a comfortable level. If anything feels off, just text me and I’ll take care of it for you. We want you completely comfortable. Opening windows is always an option if you’d like a bit of fresh country air.

In the kitchen, you’ll find fresh eggs from our hens and farm bacon waiting for you in the fridge.

And for your mornings, there’s a drip coffee maker on the coffee bar, along with ground coffee blended with chicory. It’s a favorite around here.

As we get closer to your arrival, I’ll send along a few “Tony Tips” to help you settle in and make the most of your stay. The best way to reach me is by text or phone, don’t hesitate to reach out for anything at all.

Here is a link you can share with your group so everyone has the same information.

Safe travels, and we’ll see you soon.

~ Farmer Tony