Nestled in the rolling hills of Northern Maryland, the Egner Dairy Farm stood as a testament to resilience and tradition. Established long before the Civil War tore the nation apart, the farm had been a steadfast presence in the community for generations.
At its heart stood the old stone home, a sturdy structure erected by Herbie Egner’s great grandfather with hands weathered by hard work and determination. From its humble beginnings, the Egner family poured their sweat and toil into the land, nurturing it into a prosperous dairy farm.
Herbie Egner, the last in a long line of dedicated farmers, inherited not just the land, but also a sense of duty ingrained in the very stones of the homestead. He grew up within its walls, learning the ways of the farm from his father and his father before him.
One of the most enduring tales of the Egner Dairy Farm was the remarkable dedication of its previous owner, Herbie’s father. Known simply as Old Man Egner, he had never missed a day milking the cows, regardless of weather or circumstance. His commitment to his craft was legendary, a source of inspiration for generations to come.
The old stone home itself bore witness to the passage of time, standing stoically as the world changed around it. For decades, it lacked modern amenities, relying instead on the stream at the bottom of the hill for bathing and laundering clothes. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that plumbing finally found its way into the homestead, a nod to progress while still honoring the simplicity of the past.
As the years rolled by, the Egner Dairy Farm remained a bastion of tradition in an ever-evolving world. Each sunrise brought with it the familiar rhythm of farm life, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who came before. And though Herbie Egner has since passed on, his legacy lives on in the land he loved and the stories that continue to be told around the hearth of the old stone home.
With the passing of Herbie Egner, a new chapter began for the Egner Dairy Farm as the Kelley family proudly took up the mantle of stewardship. For the Kelleys, the opportunity to become the new custodians of such a storied piece of land was both an honor and a responsibility they cherished.
With hearts full of reverence for the history that permeated every corner of the farm, the Kelleys were determined to preserve its legacy while also infusing it with new life and vitality. They saw the farm not just as a business, but as a cherished sanctuary where generations of friends and family could come together to create lasting memories.
With thoughtful planning and a deep respect for tradition, the Kelleys set out to enhance the farm’s offerings while staying true to its roots. They refurbished the old stone home, maintaining its rustic charm while adding modern conveniences to ensure comfort for all who visited.
But perhaps the most significant change came in the form of diversification. In addition to continuing the dairy operations that had sustained the farm for so long, the Kelleys introduced new activities and attractions aimed at making the farm a destination for locals and tourists alike.
Among these innovations was the establishment of a horse rescue program. Recognizing the need to provide sanctuary for neglected and abused equines, the Kelleys converted a portion of the farm into a safe haven where these majestic creatures could heal and thrive.
From pick-your-own fruit orchards to guided nature hikes along the scenic trails that crisscrossed the property, there was something for everyone to enjoy. And as word spread of the Kelley family’s commitment to preserving the farm’s heritage while embracing innovation, visitors flocked to experience the magic of the Egner Dairy Farm for themselves.
Under the stewardship of the Kelley family, the Egner Dairy Farm blossomed into more than just a place of work—it became a beloved community hub where the past met the present in a harmonious blend of tradition, progress, and compassion for all creatures great and small. And as the sun set over the rolling hills, casting a golden glow upon the land, it was clear that the spirit of Herbie Egner lived on in every blade of grass and every happy visitor who walked the grounds.
Our Mission Today: At Kelley farm, we are committed to raising our animals with the utmost care, focusing on their happiness, health, and well-being. We believe that a healthy and joyful environment for our animals translates into a positive experience for everyone who visits. By prioritizing their needs, we not only enhance their mental health but also our own, fostering a sense of peace and connection with nature. Our farm is more than just a place—it’s a sanctuary where nature lovers and animal enthusiasts can come together to experience joy, serenity, and the beauty of responsible farming. We invite you to join us in celebrating the bond between humans and animals in a setting that nurtures the soul.
