We have been going to Whittamore’s Farm yearly for fall photos since Big H was born. We volunteered on her daycare trip to Pumpkinland in 2011. Many of my friends go there to pick their own strawberries or for fresh produce from their market store. This year, the farm classic on Steeles Avenue will be closing its doors to the public in November and the feeling we get when hearing that is sadness.
The Whittamore family has owned the 330-acre farm since 1804. They’ve been in the pick-your-own berry business since the mid-1950s. Mike Whittamore said it was a hard decision to make, but it was time. Working around the clock is what farming is all about so it is understandable that this hard-working family needs a break and some family time together. Many loyal customers from Markham and other nearby communities are saddened by the news of the farm closing to the public, but they get it. It’s been a long time.
The family will rethink their farming in 2018 and decide which future endeavours to take. They may not do fruits and vegetables, but they will certainly do something with the huge plot of land. Until then, you have about a week to squeeze in photo ops with their lovely pumpkins and they kids can have one last ride on their horse swings or swoosh down their big red slide.
Thank you, Whittamore’s for all those memories. We will never forget you.
Hip Teacher Mama 