Every day, at around 4:30 in the afternoon, the animals at Alderbrook Farm come inside to eat, a high point in the day for them, and also for visitors to the farm who get to see, and maybe pet an animal or two. This time of day also calls in Rock to follow his adopted relatives. Rock came to Alderbrook Farm as a gosling and grew up amongst the donkeys, now he thinks he’s one. C’est la vie…at least at this farm. Here, a colorful array of friendly and very well-kept animals are lovingly cared for by Nancy and Allen Manley of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, the born, raised, and the wandering. You can find Rock hanging out in the donkey pen, but be warned, if you get too close to his family, he may snap, geese-turned-donkeys can be very protective…
An all-around rooted family establishment, Alderbrook Farm spans over four generations of Manley’s. The first to operate the farm was Thomas Manley in 1889 who passed it to his brother Charles, and then to the hands of Geneva Manley. Allen, the son of Geneva, and wife Nancy now handle the 16 acre land. They rise early and lovingly care for their animals, farm, and produce; the Alderbrook farmstand is open every day at 5am.There you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, farm-raised eggs and honey, coffees, breads, jams, birdseed, cut flowers, and a sure crowd pleaser: peacock feathers from the proud and beautiful “Argus.”
The sweetest part about this family-run farm is its honor-system morale and sustainable mentality. Their old fashioned/twenty-first century value system does not go unnoticed. Along with many modern business, they have a facebook page. When a “friend” on facebook asked about rhubarb at Alderbrook, they received a swift reply: “The rhubarb is up, if its not in the stand just ask and we will cut it fresh for you.” Their business involves simple hard work, and careful attention to the things they love. With such a long history it’s comforting to know the Manley’s have their hearts in the business.
Alderbrook Farm is located on Rustill Mills Road in Dartmouth, MA and was recently voted “Massachusetts Century Farm.” It’s truly beautiful place to see and shop year round. If you get a chance to visit, bring your camera and sunglasses. The grass shines brighter at Alderbrook Farm, where families are always welcome (even hybrid ones).
