A well-kept springtime secret is being uncovered by local visitors in search of a fresh dose of spring. Growing in the backyard of FarmCoast, just south of Russells Mills Village, you will find a vibrant field of daffodils…but only if you know where to look! 3 acres of glorious yellow daffodils have bloomed and, because New Englanders like to keep their treasures hidden, there are no signs on how to find the field. It remains tucked inside the paths of Parson’s Preserve –part of Dartmouth’s Natural Resourses Trust– creating an exciting springtime scavenger hunt for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. If you’re looking for a seasonal family outing follow our directions to this wonderful spring display!
Park at the Russells Mills Landing.
Cross the street and walk to your right along the road until you see a metal farm gate between two posts.
Follow the path to the left of the gate and up the hill.
At the top of the hill you will be greeted by a DNRT sign welcoming you to the preserve.
From that point you must follow the yellow squares tacked to the trees, they will lead you all the way to the daffodils…
“A host of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees. Fluttering and dancing in the breeze,” says William Wordsworth’s poem just as you enter the field. “I gazed –and gazed –but little thought what wealth to me this show had brought…” You might want tell your friends about this dancing garden, or just keep it as your own secret treasure.
Either way, families will enjoy a delightful gallivant through the fields. You can make a day of it by contining your hike through the DNRT woods (maps are provided at the first yellow marker), exploring the animals at nearby Alderbrook Farm, and stopping lunch in Padanaram Village. Going on a hunt for daffodils has never been more fun.
Spring has sprung on FarmCoast! Visit our Spring Ramble page for more day-trip ideas on a refreshing retreat to the country.
Creeping into the essence of our culture is a not-so-new food movement where salad is picked from the backyard, honeys and jellies are collected in kitchen jars, and whisky’s distilled in big stainless pots; ”The small farmer is the new gastronomic superhero,” says NPR’s Bonny Wolf. Another popular food expert is no stranger to the heroism of local farmers. Didi Emmons, the Boston-based “roving Eco-chef” found one farming superhero worth shadowing for over 10 years. The result: her new cookbook, Wild Flavors, featuring all the nitty-gritty details about one glorious garden, and the flavors that bring bushels of popular, smitten chefs to Eva Sommaripa’s bounty.
Eva is not your average 70-year-old, and not your typical farmer either. Perhaps that’s what drew Didi like a magnet to the unconventional farm in South Dartmouth back in 2001. Known as Eva’s Garden, the farm was then building a solid customer base of renowned New England chefs excited by the innovative flavors grown by Eva and her team. Like many local farmers and FarmCoast residents, Eva found a sanctuary in the fertility of the coastal land. After traveling back and forth to Cambridge restaurants in the early stages of her farming operation, top chefs quickly propelled Eva to a celebrity status.
In her garden, weeds are a delicacy, and plants you’ve never heard of make dishes to die for. While Eva’s Garden has over 200 varieties of wild flowers, herbs, and greens, Wild Flavors features over 40 of the common and uncommon varieties, and 150 recipes to enjoy them. If you’ve resolved to eat more vegetables this year, this book will certainly give you a jolt of enthusiasm. The book is divided into seasons with recipes to suit the theme of whats growing at any given time. Didi’s picks for winter (themed, “Salvaging”) include dishes like Parsnip Tea Cake, Root Vegetable Latkes, and Sprouted Hummus. Between the recipes, Didi details the life cycle and botany of the ingredients, and the story of the inspiring woman who grows the plants. Eva’s gained significant press over the years for the same superhero qualities Didi found in her ten years ago. A complete blend of cooking instruction, narrative, botany, and foodie life coaching, Wild Flavors is a robust addition to your cookbook collection.
Pick up a copy of the book and see for yourself why everyone’s talking about Eva, and better yet what Eva’s talking about. ”There are so many forms of life…that’s the most exciting part of the whole thing,” she says. Wild Flavors reveals the succulent truths about a life digging for treasures in the dirt. The book itself is a worthy FarmCoast treasure.
Wild Flavors is available at The Cottage in Tiverton Four Corners and Partners Village Store in Westport, MA and at your local book seller. For more information on Didi Emmon’s life in the world of good food visit www.didiemmons.com.
Gift shopping is upon us, and FarmCoast New England has unwrapped a few ideas to inspire you this season. If you’ve been searching for something different a little different this year, something memorable, creative, and full of New England cheer, read on; our gift ideas might be exactly what you’re looking for…
1. CSA or FarmShare to one of our local farms
Organic enthusiasts, experimental cooks, and environmentally friendly families will love this rewarding gift that will bring fresh veggies to their table long after the holidays are through…
2. Outdoor Adventure of a lifetime
-Based out of South Dartmouth, Balloon Adventures of New Bedford offers warm rides year round. Gifting a hot air balloon ride will surely cure the winter blues!
-On the flip side Osprey Sea Kayak and Adventure gift certificates offer an exciting and grounded option for a good time.
3. Edible Gift Baskets from Milk and Honey
You tell them what kind of cheese you like, and Kathi and Gerry will whip up a festive goodie basket. With over 100 varieties of cheese, and loads of local extras like honey, olive oil, crackers, and pasta, giving a gift basket is completely satisfying for everyone involved. www.milkandhoneybazaar.com
4. The beauty of something made by hand
FarmCoast is loaded with handmade gifts, a thoughtfulness that makes holiday gift-giving not just intimate, but unforgettable…
Some of our favorite picks: Ceramics at Salt Marsh Pottery, Charlie Barmonde, Gustin Ceramics, and Roseberry-Winn; Jewelry like one-of-a-kind wire earrings by Susan Freda, or colorful cocktail rings by Tiffany Peay. Silk and felt scarves from Gallery4, hand-printed bags and accessories from Nankeen, and luxurious lotions from Flora!
5. Coffee of the Month Club at Coastal Roasters.
Two fragrant bags of fair-trade and organic coffee will arrive on their doorstep every month, a precious gift for all five senses. To find out more visit www.coastalroasters.com.
6. A relaxing winter getaway…or at least the makings of one
Package up a dinner gift certificate and a stay at one of our cozy b&bs!
7. JonnyCakes, Pancakes, and Syrup!
Gray’s Grist Mill is a historic New England must-see for visitors. But if you can’t get to the mill, they can still wrap up some of this local goodness for you with belly-warming gifts starting at just $15. www.graysgristmill.com.
8. Partner’s Village Store gifts from A to Z
Last Saturday Partners’ Open House featured autographed books, alpacas, chocolate tasting, and silhouette portraits. Known for unique and quality gifts, they carry everything from cookbooks and kids books to candles and kitchenware. There’s never a dull moment or present at this popular gift shop. www.partnersvillagestore.com
9. Wine Club Membership at Westport Rivers
A bottle of wine never fails, but pair it with a Wine Club Membership and your gift just got a little merrier.
10. Weave your Own
If you’ve always wanted to make your own scarf for someone special around the holidays, there’s never been a better time or place. Amy Lund Handweaver offers no-experience necessary weaving instruction so you can offer up (wearable) handmade gifts. Lessons are offered throughout the year, and also make a great gift.
If you have a favorite gift idea to share with our readers, something we might have missed, comment below, we’d love to hear from you!
“It’s hard for me not to buy things that are pink,” says Wendy Joblon, of Folia in South Dartmouth. But she does, she stocks colors and patterns galore in her sunny stationary and gift store in Padanaram Village. An energetic wedding planner for Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Wendy knows a thing or too about elegant gifting, and more importantly, a lot about how to celebrate.
Wendy’s business has been nestled along the streets of Padanaram for over 7 years, invigorating the small boating village with stylish and colorful charm. From ribbon-lined stationary, to make-up bags, to invitations, to pillowcases, everything at Folia makes the room shine, and everything comes personalized. They also have a large section of personalized children’s goodies, like stickers, aprons, and sweaters.
Folia means “thin, leaf-like layers of paper,” which is much of what you will find in the small shop. Lovely and delicate paper and ribbon pages to hold between your fingers, admire, and adore.
Through December 3rd, Folia is having a Holiday Open House featuring tons of gifts for him, her, teachers, and kids. And if you missed the early-bird 10% off sale, don’t dismay, besides for a few choice items, everything in the store is under $50, making gift shopping affordable the whole year round.
If you plan to do any shopping this weekend, make it in Padanaram where quaint and cozy shops line the harbor, but never have lines. Other stores in the village include Flora, featuring cottage-style fine home gifts, and The Packet, full of fun clothing for men, women, and babies. Padanaram has the kind of exceptional shops that make you pleased to walk out with something unique for everyone on your list.
The second weekend in December is Padanaram’s Holiday Stroll, discover what Folia has to offer and find a gift for someone special (who just could be you). You can also order online at their website www.shopfolia.com and reach Wendy at 354 Elm Street, South Dartmouth, MA; (508) 992-2950.
Crackling hot breakfast, breath-taking water views, and rolling farmland as far as the eye can see… this is what travelers looking for a quiet get-away might call heaven, and what the inns along the FarmCoast call home. Tucked away amongst the lush forest-laden land of Tiverton, Little Compton, Westport, and Dartmouth are a variety of accommodations to host you during your visit to the area. Some are old, some are new, and all have something unique to offer. From large-scale historic elegance to small home-style rooms, peaceful lodging on the FarmCoast humbly awaits you. Beauty and solitude are among the many reasons to find one of these charming establishments, and hunker down for a relaxing stay.
The Henley House- Dartmouth
Derrick and Margret Jones from Oxfordshire, England brought a little of their English heritage to the FarmCoast when they decided to re-open The Henley House in South Dartmouth nine years ago. “We are a little oasis here,” says Margret, even though they sit steps away from the busy streets of Padanaram Village, known for history, shops, and views of the Apponagansett Bay. The house fits well alongside this seaside colonial village with remnants of old area houses, and pieces of “The Wanderer,” (the last known Whaling Ship) built into the walls. Outside, walkable gardens adorn the landscape, reflecting the gentle marriage of the home’s English and New England roots. The three guest rooms have private baths and are accompanied by a delightful homemade hot breakfast such as quiche or crepes each morning, along with fresh fruit, homemade granola and breads, coffee, and tea. The hosts are especially accommodating to guests’ special diets, and, you can rest assured, they know how to make an excellent cup of tea.
Paquachuck Inn- Westport
This 9-room, harbor-side inn overflows with area history and charisma. Popular, and predominantly positioned at the far end of Westport Point, The Paquachuck Inn is an authentic sailor’s lodge, a historic building that once a welcomed weary travelers, and now serves as a respite for guests from around New England. Each room grants a gorgeous view of the harbor, and sunny, large common rooms give a warm sense of home. The Paquachuck is minutes to Horseneck Beach and The Back Eddy, and also has a private dock for fishing.
The Edith Pearl- Little Compton
An established residence on the side of West Main Rd. in Little Compton, The Edith Pearl is central to all points on the FarmCoast and most importantly, it’s dog friendly. After all, dogs love free open space just as much as we do, and there’s plenty of that on the FarmCoast. The colonial home itself is surrounded by 200 acres of farmland. 3 comfortable guest rooms are lovingly cared for by Deborah LeLevier, and amenities including a guest-raved-about hot breakfast, wireless internet, and all the accouterments of your own home (beach chairs, books to read, and a pet if you didn’t bring yours) are on hand. The Edith Pearl was awarded Yankee Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for the Best of New England in 2010.
The Stone House- LittleCompton
Regal and rural, The Stone House sits atop a Gastby-esque estate overlooking a gorgeous and private view of Round Pond. The house was originally built as a private residence in 1854 and re-opened in 2009 after renovations were completed to reflect modern design and efficiency. This is the largest and most luxurious accommodation along the FarmCoast boasting designer bathrooms, i-pod docks in each room, organic linens, and an onsite spa. The main house has 9 rooms and their “Wood Barn” has an additional 3 suites. The Stone House is the perfect size, and location, for hosting wedding parties, and family reunions.
Ferolbink Bed and Breakfast- Tiverton
Settled out in the country on the beautiful acres of Ferolbink Farm sits the old farm house decidedly planted right where it belongs. It’s a family-run establishment with a wrap around front porch where you can, if you’d like, sit in a rocking chair, close your eyes, and be transported to a simpler time. If you’re looking for a little more adventure, take a bike ride to Four Corners or short drive to one of the nearby shopping villages along the FarmCoast. The farm is fully operational and supplies a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables for their breakfast each morning.
Wherever you end up, we hope you enjoy your stay! Be sure to let us know your favorite Bed and Breakfast experience, and please visit FarmCoast on Flicker for more images of FarmCoast lodging.
We all scream for local ice cream! While sitting on the couch with a pint of your favorite Ben and Jerry’s can be entirely satisfying, summer calls for something a little more stately. This summer, FarmCoast invites you to take a tour of our ice cream stands, road trip style, and the local businesses that make this delightful summer treat a beloved gathering for friends, family, and strangers alike. The shops along the rural south coast boast awarding-winning, homegrown flavors and charming atmospheres, not to mention smiling small-town service. If standing in line for a sugar cone is your idea of an evening adventure, the four towns of FarmCoast welcome you to experience their unique, drippy summer treats…
We start the tour in Dartmouth, where Salvador’s Ice Cream has been serving up cones since the 1930′s. Yep, serving ice cream for over 70 years will make you an expert. Dartmouth locals recognize the giant milk urn-turned-small-business from miles away, and travel to hangout with the food, ice cream, and wooden game tables. Owned and operated by Len and Beth Gauvin and family since 2005, the building has a long history of ownership. Len and Beth restored the building to it’s original black and white appearance, and were meticulous enough to win a restoration award for their efforts. They now serve more than just ice cream (visitors love the lobster rolls and hearty burgers) but strive to keep it simple. “This place has a lot of history,” says Len, “people have been bringing their children and grandchildren here for years.” Salvador’s is located next to Cornell Farm, so you can watch baby sheep graze against a picturesque landscape while you climb the trees, play checkers, or enjoy a cone on one of the picnic benches. Salvador’s is entirely family friendly.
Next, make your way to Handy Hill Creamery in Westport where locals swarm (usually from Horseneck Beach) for salty snacks like salt water taffy and oyster bellies. “People are usually lined up all the way to the street,“ says a Handy Hill employee. Handy Hill is family owned and operated but employs dozens of happy faces for the summer to accommodate their enormous popularity. Each summer they feature specials, like this summer’s $1 soft serve cones. Handy Hill is on Hixbridge Road, a quick stop off the highway with tons of space to park, and plenty of room for a large crowd. Pets welcome!
Conveniently located across the street from Osprey Sea Kayak Adventures you’ll find the Head Town Landing Country Store, awaiting those customers seeking a refreshing break from the heat of the river. “We opened in the summer of 2008,” say local owners Rory and Kathy Couturier who quickly established a loyal and local customer following. The small shoppe features isles of mom-and-pop style service, proudly offering 40 flavors of Bliss ice cream served year round, Del’s Lemonade, and the town’s largest selection of penny candy. After a long day of paddling, they also provide satisfying pick-me-ups like Coney Island hot dogs, Green Mountain Coffee, and fresh baked pastries made right in store. Accessible by land or water, they invite you to sit and relax by the beautiful Westport River.
Next stop, Margaret’s Corner Cones in Little Compton. On the corner of Willow Ave. and Simmons Road this little shop is a perfect destination or pit-stop for bikers roaming the hills and backroads of the FarmCoast. The shop features a wide assortment of unique flavors including “Graham Central Station,” and “Purple Cow.” Margaret’s is a rare, peaceful and quiet outdoor place to relax while enjoying an ice cream. If you do make the stop, be sure to try the Black Rasberry Yogurt, otherwise known as a happiness on a cone.
Our last stop is in Tiverton Four Corners at Gray’s Homemade Ice Cream, now in the Rhode Island Monthly‘s Hall of Fame for Best Ice Cream. Not only has it been voted the best year after year, it’s one of the oldest too. For 88 years, the ice cream at Gray’s has been handmade in Tiverton, now featuring over 40 flavors. The historic establishment has been in the hands of Marilyn Bettencourt since 1981 but has never lost its authentic mom-and-pop charm. Behind the outdoor ice cream stand, Gray’s has a small general store where you can get everything you need to make a perfect sundae at home, including containers of Gray’s homemade flavors. We recommend one of the original four: Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee, or Strawberry. Marilyn stays open 365 days a year.
After a long, hot day at the beach, or wherever your days take you, stop by one, or all, of our ice cream stands and enjoy some local flavor. After all, summer’s never complete without a melty cone and beautiful sunset. FarmCoast is proud to be a part of this timeless New England tradition, eating (good) ice cream.
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).
It’s a sooty job, but someone has to do it. Good thing there were lots of people at Gustin Ceramics this past weekend to unload the latest firing. Over 1000 pieces of pottery were removed from the Anagama Wood Kiln at Gustin’s Dartmouth studio. Helpers gathered in assembly line form to take the pottery piece by piece from the 3-chamber kiln. Many were participating in “kiln-shares,” others– friends, family, and pottery enthusiasts–came for the hands-on, up-close view of a day in the life of a potter.
The bi-annual unloading event takes place behind the renovated chicken coop where Gustin Ceramics has made a home for ceramic artwork. Owner Chis Gustin built the Japanese, tunnel-style kiln and renovated it in 2005 to include 3 chambers, making firing more efficient. With this ancient wood-run structure, potters relinquish part of the creative process to naturally occurring “weather” inside the kiln; ash created by wood firing creates unique glazing not achievable through gas or electric firing. Gustin does stick around, almost around the clock however, to make sure the temperature stays optimal during the process. “The kiln takes three days to load, six days to fire, and a week to cool and unload.”
Under such a delicate and lengthy unfolding, no wonder participants were enthusiastic to take part, even in the heat the day. As pieces came out from the kiln, volunteers shouted the name of the artist and the work made it’s way down the line, to its respective resting place under a tent or on a table. The long-awaited results were glorious.
Gustin Ceramics is located along the open fields of the Farmcaost on Horseneck Rd. Chris Gustin’s background and lifetime experience in ceramic manufacturing has earned him international recognition. Perhaps one of the most satisfying honors is the success of his tile company featuring handmade and uniquely durable tile solutions. Gustin is also known for his sculptural ceramic artwork. Whatever the creation, his work exhibits natural elements at their most beautiful.
The next firing will be in September. To learn more about kiln shares, and studio events visit www.gustinceramics.com.
