Destinations Archives - Undiscovered Maine

Welch Farm – A Journey Through Time

njones — Fri, 09 May 2025 21:12:06 +0000

Welch Farm: 186 Roque Bluffs Road, Roque Bluffs, Maine 04654 | lhanscom1@gmail.com
https://welchfarm.com/

Wouldn’t it be nice to get into a time travel machine and go back to the 1800s to experience life when things were simpler?

You don’t need the time-travel machine. Use your car instead and visit the beautiful six-generation Welch Farm in Rogue Bluffs, Maine, for an authentic old-world experience.

In late April 2025, we visited Lisa and her father, Wayne, at Welch Farm to see this phenomenal wild blueberry farm in remote DownEast Maine along the ocean. When we arrived, they were waiting for us with big smiles and a lovely welcome. It was an amazing experience.

A Journey Through Time – Welch Farm History

“In the late 1700s/Early 1800s, the Thompson family bought the land and established a mixed farming operation in what was then part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. They raised cattle, hay, and wheat. In the mid-1800s, the Thompsons built the Western-style barn, which remains standing on the farm today and is one of the oldest buildings still standing in Roque Bluffs.

In 1912, the farm was purchased by Frank and Mary Welch, who converted the fields to wild blueberries over time. “One year after buying the Homestead, the original Thompson house burned. While the Welch’s rebuilt their family home, they worked the farm and tirelessly cleared the land to plant wheat, rye, and oats. They also raised 400 head of sheep and milked 40 cows by hand.“ (Lisa Hanscom)

“As Frank worked to clear the land, using sheep to help in the process, these natural, wild blueberry plants began to take over. By the early 1920s, Frank and Mary began managing and harvesting those natural little wild blueberries to sell locally and were shipped by train to the markets in Boston under their fresh product brand, Bluffs Point Blueberries.

Frank and Mary raised a daughter, Priscilla, on the farm. When Priscilla and her husband moved to Boston after WWII to find work, Frank and Mary took in and raised Priscilla’s children, Wayne and his sister Margo. At the feet of his grandfather, Wayne learned farming and blueberry production. At the age of 16, Wayne became the head of the family and was solely responsible for the farm operation after the death of his grandfather. Wayne soon made the decision to cut the number of cattle and to get rid of the sheep so he could focus on the wild blueberry production. In honor of his grandfather, he named the farm Welch Farm.

Todays Operations

Today, Wayne’s Daughter, Lisa, helps with the daily farm operation and management. Over the past 10-plus years, the farm has expanded from a wild blueberry crop being sold only to a Wild Blueberry Processor to offering our own fresh Blueberries and value-added products, Christmas wreaths, and centerpieces during the holidays. Cabin Rentals are available during the summer season so people can stay and enjoy a Welch Farm experience. Farm Tours are given all spring and summer long, where you, our guests, can learn about this amazing wild fruit, the Maine Wild Blueberry, and about the wild blueberry Industry. You might even want to visit during the wild blueberry season and try your hand at raking those small berries with the big taste.” ()

Blueberry Farming

Welch Farm has 64 acres of wild Maine Blueberries. They harvest half of that (32 acres) each year and let the other half rest, which “promotes healthy plant growth and yields. This biennial cropping cycle allows the plants to recover, develop new growth, and produce a larger fruit crop the following year.” (Wildblueberries.com)

Speaking of wild Maine blueberries, here are some interesting fun facts about them.

“Unlike ordinary blueberries, wild blueberries are not planted. Instead, they are indigenous (1 of 3 native North American fruits) and spread naturally where Mother Nature put them, with thousands of genetically different varieties in every field. This diversity is what gives wild blueberries their intense, delicious, sweet-tart taste and their spectacular blend of complex flavors.
Wild blueberries have an extensive underground rhizome system. As much as 70% of the plant actually lives underground, spreading horizontally in the few inches of organic matter atop the sand and gravel of glacial soil below.
The millions of plants on the wild blueberry barrens provide a unique genetic diversity and complex flavor profile that cannot be duplicated by ordinary blueberries, which have only a few varieties per acre.
Extensive research over the last 20 years is revealing just how much wild blueberries can improve human health. Findings suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of wild blueberries may contribute to better brain health, gut health, heart health, cancer prevention, reduced risk of diabetes, and increased urinary tract health.”
()

A True Taste of Maine

Lisa told us they do tours all summer, often with 4-5 daily tours during the season. The best time to visit is during the harvest: about mid-July to mid-to-late August.

A typical tour consists of Lisa telling you about the blueberry industry, teaching you how to rake, fresh-pack the berries in the processing center, and then take home a five-pound box. This gives you a first-hand experience in blueberry farming; you even get to take home the “fruits of your labor”!

A Place for Community and Celebration

They have two rustic rental cabins, built by the Amish, for those who want to live the simple life and stay on the farm for a few days. They are considering building several wooden “hobbit houses”, so stay tuned.

Many stories have been written about them worldwide, from countries like Canada, Nigeria, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, and many more, as well as across the U.S. Thus, you never know who you may meet from around the country or the world when you visit!

Most people who visit the Welch farm are active and interested in farming and this unique historical farm experience.

The farm is beautiful with its rugged blueberry barrens and has about a mile of oceanfront that guests can access and enjoy. The scenery is phenomenal, and the sense of peace and tranquility is unsurpassed. If you really want to escape the “maddening crowd” to decompress and destress, this is the place to go!

What are their goals for the farm?

Lisa would love to be able to work the farm without her full-time job, which is now needed to keep the farm running, fix things like the original barn, repair and purchase needed equipment, and more.

How can they accomplish this?

If they can expand the rental side with the proposed “hobbit houses”, that would bring in more revenue. They are also thinking of using the farm for events. They have space for events like weddings, photography shoots, and much more.

Perhaps the best thing about our visit was meeting and spending time with Lisa and her father, Wayne. If you think about people we describe as “salt of the earth”, that describes them! They were so kind, friendly, and helpful that we left this wonderful experience feeling that we had made some nice friends and great memories.

Videos

Here are a couple of excellent videos about the farm and blueberries:

This one stars the adorable Leom for a fun farm tour! (Created by Ashley Hinson)

This second one is a documentary called “Growing Wild,” which shares the experiences of four blueberry families.

We loved the visit- you should take a trip to see for yourself! It takes almost two hours to drive from Bangor, but the small country roads and lovely scenery are definitely part of the journey.

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Hog Bay Pottery

njones — Sun, 04 May 2025 20:10:08 +0000

From Clay and Wool: The Life Threads of Charlie and Susanne at Hog Bay Pottery in Rural Maine

Located in a quiet corner of Franklin, Maine, surrounded by ten acres of spruce, lupine, and the salty sea, Charlie and Susanne Grosjean have been crafting a life of creativity, artistry, and community for over five decades. The founders of Hog Bay Pottery and their studio are a testament to the continuing spirit of craftsmanship, reflecting their passions and shared journey.

A Journey Rooted in Biology, Spun into Craft

Both biology majors at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, Charlie and Susanne, never imagined their careers turning from microscopes and laboratories to clay and wool. It was a pottery elective Charlie took for fun that set him on a path of creative expression, while Susanne, with the weaving studio just down the hall, became fascinated by the art of textiles. What began as casual college experiments evolved into lifelong callings.

After graduation, they moved to Boston to work in a public health lab, where they lived in a fixer-upper, intentionally keeping costs low so they could save money. But after a year, the pull of Maine was (too) strong. They both landed jobs at Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, but while stable, their work was not the fulfillment they sought. By 1972, they made a bold decision: with a $66-a-month mortgage and a deep belief in the value of handy work, they bought land in Franklin, where they founded Hog Bay Pottery and their weaving business.

Crafting a Community, One Piece at a Time

Susanne’s journey into weaving began when she bought her first loom in Massachusetts. In Maine, she taught spinning and weaving at Jackson Labs before transitioning to cooking at the College of the Atlantic. She began selling handwoven rugs, clothing, and wall hangings at local craft fairs, refining her skills through workshops with renowned weavers like Peter Collingwood. Over the years, Susanne found creative ways to source materials affordably, from purchasing leftovers to fixing up old looms and even scoring 100 pounds of harvest gold mohair from a mill in Ellsworth. Along the way, she connected with local shepherds and cultivated a network of makers, farmers, and artists who supported one another through trades and collaborations.

Meanwhile, Charlie dove deeper into pottery. Committed to making every piece unique, he continued to evolve his designs, shapes, and glazes, often incorporating local materials like clay and ash. He welcomed children into his studio to throw pots, firing them and mailing the finished pieces as mementos. Charlie focused on creating a holistic experience, not just a commercial product. His customers became his neighbors and friends, and in many cases, they were returning (third-generation) supporters.

Authenticity was at the core of their work for both Charlie and Susanne. Their shop was not just a business – it was a meeting place. Locals returned for gifts and pottery, while tourists discovered the charm of locally made, one-of-a-kind creations. Word-of-mouth advertising was their most effective marketing tool. People came because they trusted the quality of the work and the genuine, friendly atmosphere that filled their studio.

A Life of Purpose and Craft

The road was not always easy. They raised children, made art, and spent 25 years caring for aging parents with dementia – all while managing a business without health insurance. They made do with little, stretching every dollar, but always to build something real and lasting. And despite the challenges, the work remained deeply rewarding, creative, fulfilling, and, most importantly, fun.

Susanne, who grew up with a Quaker background and embraced the counterculture ideals of the 1970s, never expected to become a businesswoman, but weaving was a path she carved for herself. Today, she spins yarns from local wool, dyes them with plants she grows herself – indigo, madder, and flax – and shares her knowledge by teaching and demonstrating spinning at fairs like the Common Ground Fair. For Susanne, the work remains an art form and a playful exploration of texture, color, and community.

Now in his late seventies, Charlie fills his kiln every six weeks with a whole load of pottery. He mixes his glazes, sometimes incorporating ash from local wood, always searching for new textures and colors. Though they know their store may not survive them, they continue to craft with deliberate intention, knowing that their work honors the land, the people, and the timeless tradition of handcrafted artistry surrounding them.

The Pottery: A Hub of Creativity and Tradition

At the heart of their story is Hog Bay Pottery, where traditional craftsmanship meets the beauty of Maine’s landscape. A biology major turned potter, Charlie has spent years refining his skills. His gas-fired and wood-fired pottery includes functional pieces like dinnerware, bowls, vases, mugs, and lamps, each featuring glazes that reflect the natural beauty of the Maine coastline. Susanne, equally passionate, has built a body of work focused on handwoven textiles, creating rugs, wall hangings, and clothing, all made from locally sourced materials and dyed with plants she grows herself.

Hog Bay Pottery operates with a unique, customer-friendly model: no set business hours exist. The shop is open whenever possible, and visitors are welcome to browse and make purchases on a self-serve basis. With a sign explaining the process and a payment lockbox, this approach reflects the Grosjeans’ commitment to community trust and accessibility. Over the years, Hog Bay Pottery has become not just a business but a cornerstone of the Franklin community, offering a gathering place for locals and a cherished destination for visitors from near and far.

Charlie and Susanne’s commitment to sustainable practices and quality craftsmanship has ensured the longevity of their studio. In 2004, Charlie built a wood-fired kiln with the help of his father, drawing inspiration from traditional kiln designs. This kiln, central to his production, creates the distinctive glaze effects and textures his work is known for (note that Charlie used the wood-fired kiln from 2004-2021; since then, he has made all his pots in a gas-fired one).

A Legacy of Handmade Artistry

In a world where mass production often trumps authenticity, Charlie and Susanne have created something different: a life lived slowly, a business built with heart, and work that honors the land, the people, and the craft. They have nurtured a rich ecosystem of farmers, artists, and craft aficionados who trade goods, share ideas, and support one another – a true reflection of the norms and values they have lived by for over five decades.

As the years pass, Charlie and Susanne make pottery and weave textiles, remaining deeply connected to the land and their community. And while they know their store may not outlast them, they are content in knowing that their legacy lives on in the pieces they have crafted, the relationships they have built, and the spirit of creativity they have nurtured in Maine and beyond.

For those interested in experiencing Hog Bay Pottery firsthand, the studio is located at Hog Bay Road, Franklin, Maine. The shop is typically open during daylight, especially in summer. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to ensure someone will be available. Whether you are a collector of fine ceramics, a fan of handcrafted textiles, or someone seeking a truly unique Maine experience, Hog Bay offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into the rich tapestry of local artistry.

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Tidal Falls Preserve

njones — Fri, 02 May 2025 18:25:56 +0000

Exploring the Wonders of Tidal Falls Preserve in Hancock, Maine

Located along the beautiful coast of Downeast Maine, Tidal Falls Preserve in Hancock offers a charming combination of natural beauty, fascinating wildlife, and rich history. This roughly four-acre sanctuary, managed by the Frenchman Bay Conservancy, is a must-see destination for anyone seeking to witness the remarkable phenomenon of reversing falls and explore the area’s vibrant marine life and diverse ecosystems.

The Reversing Falls

At the heart of Tidal Falls Preserve is the spectacular tidal phenomenon known as the reversing falls. Due to the significant tidal shifts in the narrow channel between Hancock and Sullivan, the direction of the water flow changes drastically, creating a captivating display. The best time to witness this natural spectacle is approximately two hours before or after low tide. Watching the waters shift is a fascinating experience that demonstrates the power of nature at its best.

Brief History

Tidal Falls has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It served as a railroad and ferry terminal site in its early days, transporting passengers to Bar Harbor, making it a busy transportation hub. In the 1950s, the Hodgkins family took over the area, operating a lobster pound and a seafood restaurant. Today, the preserve contrasts peacefully with its once-bustling past, inviting visitors to experience the area’s natural beauty and ecological significance.

Things to Do

The Preserve isn’t just about witnessing the reversing falls; there are many activities for nature lovers, families, and people of all ages to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the preserve is tide-pooling. At low tide, the waters recede, exposing a hidden world of marine wildlife. Visitors can explore the tide pools and discover starfish, crabs, sea anemones, and other fascinating organisms. The best time for tide-pooling is 1.5 hours before and after low tide, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of this beautiful natural aquarium.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Preserve offers a prime spot for birdwatching. The preserve is part of a Maine focus area of statewide ecological significance, providing crucial habitats for many state and federal species of concern. Common sightings include seals, osprey, kingfishers, eagles, otters, and mink. The area is a haven for shorebirds and waterfowl, making it a top destination for nature photographers and wildlife watchers.

The preserve also features a shaded picnic area with wooden tables, offering the perfect spot for a family trip, including lunch or dinner by the ocean. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the sounds of nature and breathtaking views of the reversing falls and the nearby landscape.

For those who love a bit of foot exploration, the preserve offers a short, wheelchair-accessible loop trail that is less than half a mile in length. This easy, family-friendly trail provides a relaxing hike through the preserve’s scenic beauty, suitable for all ages and abilities.

Educational Opportunities

Tidal Falls Preserve is more than just a natural retreat – it offers various educational programs for children and families. As part of the Schoodic National Scenic Byway’s Kids Quest program, the preserve provides an interactive learning experience that encourages young visitors to connect with the natural ecosystem. Additionally, the preserve hosts field trip programs designed by the Maine Outdoor School, offering hands-on education. These programs make the preserve an excellent resource for recreational visitors and local schools looking to learn about the unique ecology of Maine’s coastal landscapes.

Wildlife Conservation

Beyond its beauty, Tidal Falls Preserve plays an essential role in wildlife conservation. The preserve’s ecosystems are vital for numerous species of concern, including many shorebirds and waterfowl that rely on this area for breeding and foraging. This makes Tidal Falls an essential location for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species and preserve Maine’s coastal environments for the next generations.

A Day at the Falls

Whether interested in photography,��wildlife observation, or simply��relaxing by the water, Tidal Falls offers something for everyone. The ever-changing landscape, with its dramatic tidal shifts, vibrant tide pools, and abundant wildlife, ensures that every visit is unique. As one of Maine’s hidden gems, Tidal Falls provides an enriching experience for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Downeast Maine. Next time you’re in the area, take a moment to step back and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Tidal Falls Preserve. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

Tidal Falls Rd, Hancock, ME 04640
Phone: (207) 422-2328

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Lubec

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:39:37 +0000

Love at First Light

Lubec, a small town on the coast of Maine, is in Washington County with a population size of around 1237 people, according to the 2020 census. (.)

It borders Canada and marks the easternmost town in the United States, right where the famous red and white striped West Quoddy Head lighthouse resides.��

Quoddy Head Lighthouse

Lubec’s earliest inhabitants were members of the Passamaquoddy tribe, a Native American tribe known for having the first contact with the Europeans. Passamaquoddy means “pollock plenty place.”

��“French Settlers first came from Nova Scotia in 1758 but soon moved to the upper St. John River. In 1776, people came from Nova Scotia who were sympathetic to the colonists during the Revolutionary War.” (McCauley Brain “The Names of Maine” p.101) Lubec was settled in 1785, incorporated in 1811, and named after Lübeck, the city in northern Germany, from the settlers from that town. “Lubeck,” as it was spelled in the Act of Incorporation dated 21 June 1811, was the 188th town in Maine and included Dudley, Frederic, Mark, and Roger’s Island.” ()

Lubec was once a busy, prosperous town with a population of 3363 (1910 census) known for its sardine canning and fish-smoking industry as well as fishing. The town flourished with thriving businesses and institutions like drug and department stores, cinemas, hotels, restaurants, cafes, churches, post offices, schools, etc., and expanded its roads, shipyards, and trading routes.

Lost Fisherman’s Memorial

During the Great Depression in the 1930s, the sardine and fish-smoking businesses started to decline. However, World War II revitalized the economy and expanded the businesses to full capacity to supply the US Army and Navy. Lubec provided the US forces with “three million, one-hundred can case per year.” ()��

After the war, the sardine and fish-smoking business were no longer in demand, resulting in the closure of excess factories. With continued declines in sardine numbers and a declining workforce, the last factories closed in September 2001. With the rising unemployment rate, more businesses closed, and the population continued its steady decline.

Today, wandering through Lubec, it feels like a ghost town, though you can see what was once a prospering town. Current residents still maintain the library, community buildings, playgrounds, and schools, giving the small community an inviting feel with historic character and scenic beauty. Fishermen who stayed found employment in the salmon, lobster, shellfish, urchin, and scallop fishery. Available seasonal employment includes Christmas wreath manufacturing, blueberry racking, and firewood cutting. Due to increasing tourism numbers and the beautiful coastline and hiking trails, as well as an abundance of wildlife including seals, whales, and birds, Lubec has the potential to become a major tourist destination, which could restore the town to its former vibrance.��

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Escape to Mowry Beach Preserve

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 19:57:10 +0000

��Mowry Beach Preserve– Lubec, Maine��

Mowry Beach Preserve— located minutes from the town of Lubec, Maine— offers 1.2 miles of sandy beach overlooking the Lubec Channel. Mowry Beach is a part of the Downeast Coastal Conservancy, ensuring its beauty is maintained for years to come. The beach offers many activities including swimming, fishing, bird watching, and picnicking. Dogs are even allowed on the beach (with a leash of course). Mowry Beach is used and treasured by the Lubec community. The local school uses the beach for their studies and projects. A large volunteer project even helped construct a trail going through the bog and forested area of the preserve. The South Lubec Shoreline is designated an “Important Bird Area” and many of these birds can be spotted at Mowry Beach. There is an abundance of nesting around Mowry Beach for many different species of birds. There are a variety of activities available at Mowry Beach for every type of beach-goer.

The Undiscovered Maine team visiting Mowry Beach on their semester trade trip to gather research.

While visiting Mowry Beach, I immediately noticed the beautiful view onto the Lubec Channel. The views are spectacular and perfect for anyone wanting a breathtaking ocean view. The sandy shore also had a lot of rocks, so if planning for a stroll make sure to bring sturdy sneakers. My favorite part about Mowry Beach was the sea glass it offered. Finding sea glass on the beach is one of my favorite beach activities and Mowry Beach had a ton to offer. Mowry Beach was the perfect place to unwind for a nice beach walk. Mowry Beach is a great place to do a variety of activities, make sure to add it to your bucket list next time you are Downeast. The views are unforgettable and I would definitely return.

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Small Business Success Story, MaineStone Jewelry

njones — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 20:18:30 +0000

:��346 Main Street, Wilton, ME 04294, 207-778-6560, info@mainestonejewelry.com This was a really fun visit.��The owners have mined the famous Maine tourmaline stones for many years and Ron uses his great artistic talent to create beautiful exquisite jewelry from the stones. Tourmaline comes in all colors and every piece he creates is unique! They also support local artisans

Trilobite fossil

with jewelry and other unique items in the store including rocks, gems, local pottery and even fossils that are millions of years old! Despite the seemingly small interior space, be prepared to spend a lot of time looking at all of the beautiful Maine-made items including the rock and gem “museum” in the back room.

___________________________

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A Visitors Guide to the Nordic Heritage Center

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 16:07:58 +0000

Just in��time, snow has begun to fill the landscapes of Central and Northern Maine! For those of you who have been driven stir crazy in the gap between summer’s warmth and the powder that brings in winter activity, consider the Nordic Heritage Center in Presque Isle for this season’s sporting debut!

Upon arrival, the possibilities are endless so come with a plan to enjoy your favorite outdoor activity. Be sure to sign the guestbook so that the splendid volunteers know just how many people are taking advantage of their facility! When the snow is off the ground enjoy,

Fat tire/ mountain biking��
Disc golf
Trail running
Walking trails along the ridge (bring your furry friend along!)
Have a picnic in the field or on the lodge porch

During the winter all the trails are groomed for cross country skiing with lights on two of the ridge trails that stay on until 9 pm for night skiing!

All throughout the year, the first floor of the lodge is open until about 9 each night. There is a bathroom, lockers, showers, and some space to warm up in between ski runs. However, the most exciting feature is a large sauna, keeping the Nordic tradition alive! In Maine, we are used to sprawling open space for the public to enjoy, but where else can you find facilities and hospitality like this?

No matter your skill level or age, the Nordic Heritage Center is there to get you moving! Check out our itinerary back on the home page and be sure to visit their . Happy trails!

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Small Business Success Story, Sewall House Yoga Retreats

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 19:09:04 +0000

Donna Davidge, the creative mind behind Sewall House Yoga Retreats, describes it as a place where people can find healing, both physically and emotionally.

Sewall House rose with the Aroostook County town of Island Falls when it was founded in 1845. Owner Donna Davidge’s great grandfather, William Sewall, built the home, and history immediately began to fill it. A young Theodore Roosevelt who suffered from asthma was sent to live and study under William. The immense nature of Aroostook, the shores of Mattawamkeag Lake, and the shelter of Sewall House formed young Roosevelt’s first adventure into the American wilderness. William Sewall imparted all the wisdom he drew from the land surrounding Island Falls onto Theodore Roosevelt. The latter found himself leaving the area cured of the asthma that limited him.

As for Donna’s history,��she began immersing herself in and teaching yoga in New York City in the 1980s, long before it entered mainstream culture. In 1997 she purchased Sewall House to keep her family history alive and create a space for healing through yoga.

On a visit to Sewall House Yoga Retreats, you can expect two yoga lessons each day of your stay! Along with this, there is time for meditation and self-study. This time can be organized or individual. Guests can also expect to enjoy delicious vegetarian meals, an essential part of Donna’s lifestyle. There is always time to become immersed in nature when at Sewall House. There are countless ways to get out when��staying at Sewall House, including hiking and canoeing along with day trips. The healing found in nature is just as emphasized as that found through yoga.

Donna splits her year between Maine and New York City, although she prefers her time in Maine and works towards being in Island Falls full time. The house��requires a lot of work, and too her maintaining it is the same as maintaining her history.��

Donna has learned a lot while running Sewall House and had a few pieces of advice for��other small business owners. First saying it is vital to have the right temperament for your work. She remarked that no one will care about your business as much as the owner but, that is not by any means a bad thing as long as one fully lives into their passion because the vision is theirs alone.��

She has a lot of vision! Donna hopes that Sewall House will continue to be a place for people to come and heal, a place to open internal wounds among the Aroostook wilderness, a place for physical and mental transformation. Her passion shines in her words about Sewall House. She never gets tired of hearing people talk about their healing, or how a visit feels like a step back in time.��

Find out more on the

~Samuel Mills, Undiscovered Maine Project

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Our Regions Farmers Markets and Harvest Bucks

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 18:05:50 +0000

One of the great things about our state is that we are never very far from natural beauty, clean open spaces, and fresh food! Maine’s agricultural industry works to bring fresh produce, meat, and prepared items to our state and the country throughout the year. On the local level, one can usually come��face to face with these folks through our towns and city’s countless farmer’s markets.

Just like everything else that makes Maine great, farmer’s markets are accessible for every Mainer. The state’s SNAP/ EBT programs include something called Harvest Bucks. Mainers who benefit from these programs can now spend SNAP/ EBT dollars at participating Farmers Markets and even earn bonus Harvest Bucks to spend on fruits and vegetables. So, as the weather starts to change and stands trade their lobster tanks and wildflowers for hot chocolate and apple cider doughnuts it is a perfect time for all Mainers to visit their local farmers market!

Below are just some of the local markets that accept Maine Harvest Bucks. For a full list and more information visit their website using this link:

DownEast��

Table at the Belfast Farmers Market

The Belfast Farmers Market at 256 High Street, Belfast is open Fridays 9:00-1:00. One of the vendors is Burke Hill Farms, a certified organic blueberry farm dedicated to tradition. All the blueberries are handpicked and brought right to the market! You can also expect to see Go-En Fermented Foods. This family farm hand creates a variety of Japanese inspired fermented foods from local, organic, and even wild ingredients.

The Ellsworth Farmers Market runs from 9:30-12:30 Saturday Mornings in the Acadia Realty Parking Lot. Middle Earth Mushrooms has a stand full of log ground shiitakes perfect for the top of a pizza or the main course! Also present is Mountain Foot Farm. This family farm out of Dedham, Maine is committed to sustainable and humane processes of bringing pasture-raised meat to their community.��

Vendors and visitors talk at the Alan Day Community Market

Western Maine

On Saturdays from 9:00-12:00, the Farmington Farmers Market is held at 129 Main Street. Rustic Roots Farm grows lots of vegetables and is based right in Farmington! My Pie is a local bakery that uses simple ingredients to make any pie flavor you could think of, including all the Maine classics.��

If you are in Norway, Maine on a Summer night, the Alan Day Community Market is the place to be. From 5:00-8:00 pm, this farmers market features live music, a pizza oven, and ready-to-order food in addition to the usual selection of vendors and groceries!

A table of fresh tomatoes at the Houlton Community Market

Aroostook County

At the appropriately named Market Square in Houlton, Maine their community Farmers Market is held Saturdays from 9:00-1:00. With an assortment of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses it is a place anyone can go and find great foods.��

The Madawaska Farmer’s Market is open from 10:00-4:00 two days a week! Visit them Wednesdays and Saturdays at 188 Main Street in Madawaska.

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From wild berries to headless women, Undiscovered Maine explores microbusinesses in DownEast Maine

njones — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 00:28:59 +0000

On July 24, 2021, a group of students, faculty and staff representing the Undiscovered Maine project team went on a “trade mission” trip to DownEast Maine to learn about the area and businesses. What we learned from a couple of micro-businesses is important for every business to know.

Burke Hill Farm, 20 Blackwoods Rd, Cherryfield, customerservices@burkehillfarm.com, 207-460-6215

We first visited , owned and operated by Ben Perrin, who started raking blueberries in 1991 and started Burke Hill Farm in 2001. “Burke Hill Farm is a certified organic wild blueberry farm in Cherryfield, Maine, the heart of Maine’s blueberry country, farming about 200 acres of organic wild blueberries. We farm the traditional way, harvesting by hand to provide high quality wild blueberries.”

What was fascinating was Ben’s ability to adapt and innovate to become and remain successful in a difficult commodity business. One differential advantage is being a certified organic blueberry farm, which allows him to market the blueberries as higher-value products. According to Ben, they do all of their harvesting by hand using specially designed hand rakes. This results in fewer damaged blueberries and a higher-value end product. In terms of the “value-added” concept, he also creates some organic blueberry products like jams, and frozen blueberries that command higher prices than the fruit itself.

Ben has learned the value of creating a partially “vertically integrated” supply chain. This means that in addition to producing the blueberries, he also created a series of different distribution channels, which has significantly increased his reach in the northeast market. He sells his organic blueberries to large and small retailers as well as distributors who then sell them throughout the Northeast including New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island.�� He also sells locally at farmers markets, has a rather extensive delivery service to specific areas and sells the blueberries in other venues.

Other marketing strategies include a well-designed and , which is updated regularly, has over 6,000 followers, great testimonials, and a loyal following.

Catherine Hill Winery, 661 Blackwoods Rd, Cherryfield, 207-546-3426��

We then visited , run by Deb and Walt Schwarz in Cherryfield, Maine.�� Eric and Sue Meyer originally developed the winery, which was an old dilapidated barn with an overgrown yard. They slowly transformed it into a beautiful craft winery with a tasting room and vineyard.

The name “Catherine Hill” is based on the story of a ghost from the 1800’s. The woman was Cherryfield resident Catherine Downing, who died in 1862 and whose name can be seen on a stone in a nearby graveyard. They say that she died in a carriage accident near Fox Pond with her boyfriend on the dark, foggy spooky road, now Route 182. She is wearing either a white or pale-blue dress. The story goes that Catherine was decapitated and her boyfriend’s body never found. Thus, “Catherine’s spirit is doomed to walk the road, looking for help, her lover and her head. If she’s seen by a motorist on the road, she sometimes has her head, sometimes not. He or she must stop to help her, lest they risk her curse. One story has a motorist not stopping for the ghost, looking in his rearview mirror, seeing her headless body in the back seat and crashing.” (Marcus LiBrizzi, https://bangordailynews.com/2017/10/18/living/a-frightful-drive-on-route-182-2/)

Despite the ghost, Deb and Walt purchased the winery just before the pandemic, which meant that they could not get face-to-face training. Being innovative and determined, they jumped in and quickly mastered the art of winemaking, continuing original wines and adding a variety of new blends and flavors of their own. They use a mix of the freshest grapes from away, grapes grown onsite, and local Maine berries for their berry wines. When we were there, we had

the opportunity to see raspberries fermenting in a giant vat for the delicious raspberry wine.

They have done a great job marketing Catherine Hill winery, with a nice and consistent use of social media including , . and . In fact, a recent Facebook post of their new puppy, Winston, a Bernese mountain dog, created an unexpected wave of engagement and likes, and drew new customers

within one day of his photo being posted online. Although this was not their plan, Deb and Walt adapted to this serendipitous development by highlighting this and other dogs in their brand imagery. The owners have a fun-first philosophy about wine

and about their business, and it really shows. Deb is very friendly, outgoing, and a great host. They allow guests to sample any of their lineup of thirteen wines with no snobbery. They are planning on leveraging the Catherine Hill ghost story by creating haunted wine days in the Halloween season and highlighting the old cemetery hidden in the woods behind the winery.

They are also on the that brings in wine enthusiasts from across the northeast and beyond. This provides them

with a steady stream of visitors to the winery where Deb hosts a friendly, funny wine tasting experience! Their sales from these personal visits are profitable since people pay higher value-added prices for the quality, unique product as well as the great experience.

To supplement sales during the off-season, they also distribute their��wine in several Hannaford stores and other local retailers.

What can other micro-businesses learn from these two great companies? First, add value to your products and services; differentiate. Ben was certified as an organic grower while Deb created unique wine flavors and a unique fun experience.�� Next, diversify. Ben created multiple channels of distributions as well as different products. Similarly, Deb created a line of unique wines with unusual flavors and ingredients. She also interacts with her customers, listens to them, and adapts her products as well as the experience to make it memorable.�� Finally, marketing is huge. Ben and Deb both invested in nice, professional websites to enhance the credibility of the businesses to prospective clients. Both actively leverage social media to build their brand and connect with customers as well as reach new customers.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Ben and Deb have wonderful pro-active “can-do” attitudes. They continually listen, learn, and adapt to changing customer, supplier and market trends. They are innovative

and not afraid of change, trying something new.�� For example, the pandemic exacerbated the labor shortage. For Ben, finding people to pick the blueberries has been extremely difficult and worse now. It is an enormously difficult, backbreaking job. In a recent Facebook video post, he showcased an automatic blueberry raking machine! While they still rake mostly by hand, the raking machine helps! This attitude of continual improvement and innovation is critical for business success!

We appreciate them sharing their insights, lessons learned and fantastic businesses with us! If you are a small/micro business and would like us to promote your business with a blog, success story or social media post, please let us know. undiscoveredmaine@gmail.com or

Also, take a look at our website for more information: as well as some social media information

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