Quonquont Farm

Quonquont Farm, named after a 17th-century leader of the indigenous Nonotuck people, has a rich history dating back to 1759 when the first building, a wayside tavern, was constructed. By the early 1800s, the brook on the property was dammed to operate a tannery and two cider brandy distilleries. By 1860, the farm was raising dairy and beef cattle, as well as tobacco. In 1922, it became the Quonquont Stock and Dairy Farm, known nationally for breeding Holstein-Friesian cattle. The iconic Quonquont milk bottle, now on the Whately town common, was originally part of the farm’s 'Milk Bar' restaurant. In the early 1970s, Howard Hoxie planted the current apple, peach, and blueberry orchards. The current owners purchased the 200-acre property in 2000, continuing the tradition of growing wholesome fruit. In 2011, they completed renovations to the 100-year-old tobacco barn, opening the property for special events.

The farm practices stewardship over 200 acres of meadows, forest, a spring-fed pond, and a brook, fostering a rich ecosystem that supports dozens of nesting bird species and a wide range of animals, including bears, bobcats, otters, foxes, and beavers. The wetlands on the property are home to various turtles, salamanders, fish, and seven kinds of frogs and toads. Fields and forests provide food and habitat for important native pollinators. The farm also raises pastured chickens for eggs.

Quonquont Farm offers pick-your-own blueberries, flowers, peaches, and 17 varieties of apples in season. The farmstand sells fresh-picked fruit, flowers, vegetables, and locally made products like maple syrup, honey, and unique gifts. The beautifully renovated 100-year-old barn is available for weddings and special events. The farm also features a series of lively beaver ponds and the Whately Dingle Brook, enhancing its scenic beauty and ecological diversity. Visitors can check out wildlife videos on the farm's YouTube channel.