History:

In 1979, three close friends, Mike Burke, Rich Miller, and Karlene Normandin purchased the original 18 acres of forested land in Barnstead, NH to pursue their shared dream to create a farm.  With hatchets, oxen, and a team of friends they began the arduous task of hand clearing the land and laying the groundwork (literally) for what was to become Third Stone Farm. Mike, Rich and Karlene had a vision to build a sustainable farm without the use of chemicals.  Over the years they learned how to become true stewards of the land, responsibly harvesting lumber from to build the barn, cabin, and outhouse and learning how to replenish the nutrients in the soil naturally.  Each summer, they sowed newly ploughed fields with buckwheat and then churned the grown plants into the soil at the end of the summer to fertilize the soil for next Spring’s tree planting.  They learned how long to let the ground lay fallow before planting new trees.

The farm opened for business in 1990 and has provided families with trees, traditions, and holiday memories ever since. When the three friends bought the farm, they made a pact that they would sell the farm in 2013. They hoped to find a buyer who would continue the farm but didn’t know if they would find one. When Tim and Atlanta first visited the property, they realized what a remarkable place they had discovered.  They were struck by the natural beauty of the site and their own commitment to sustainability that was embedded into the farm’s growth and operations. As an eco-artist and CSA farmer, Tim saw the farm as an extension of his art and his commitment to live sustainably. Atlanta, a corporate social responsibility professional, was excited to steward the land for future generations and to make the holiday season even more magical for her family and others.  They both saw the farm as the perfect place for their four year old daughter to run free in the trees and to grow up with a hands on experience of caring for the land.

All three Gaudreaus, also love the Christmas season for its many traditions including choosing a tree (Tim proposed to Atlanta under the lights of a Christmas tree), trimming the tree (with the same, somewhat threadbare, garland Tim used as a child), having cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning, and sharing thoughtful gifts with those they love. Since July 2013, the Gaudreau’s have worked with Rich, Karlene and Mike to learn how to care for the trees and manage the farm.  We’ve been working hard this summer and we’re all excited to see you during this special, transitional season, for Third Stone Farm.