Introducing Mary Sue Fowler and Debbie Frechette, the dynamic sister duo behind Gracie's Gift 1770 Farm. We wear many hats – from livestock keepers and breeders to resolute farmers, passionate gardeners, and farm visionaries.
Our love for farming runs deep, spanning three generations. We were raised on a family farm in eastern Massachusetts, instilled with a strong farming ethos by our parents, Martin and Grace Kozlowski. Both hailed from farming backgrounds in Pennsylvania and, alongside their professional careers, continued the tradition of tending to livestock, cultivating bountiful gardens, and nurturing beautiful flowers while raising their five daughters.
In tribute to the invaluable knowledge passed down by our beloved parents, we decided to name our farm "Gracie's Gift 1770 Farm."
Upon retiring from our previous careers – Debbie as an accountant and Mary Sue as a chef – we embarked on a new chapter of our lives as farmers. Our vision was clear: reconnect with our agricultural heritage, break free from the hustle and bustle, and contribute positively to our land, our well-being, and our community.
Our quest led us to western Massachusetts, where we discovered the picturesque town of Northfield in northern Franklin County. Our farm boasts a rich history dating back to 1770, with roles as a farm, an inn, an apple orchard, and a cider mill.
At Gracie's Gift 1770 Farm, we specialize in breeding registered Nigerian Dwarf goats for both dairy and meat production. Our diverse flock of heritage chickens produces a delightful array of colored eggs. Additionally, our American Pekin and Khaki Campbell ducks lay enormous, pristine white eggs and bring lively characters to our farmyard. We also raise Angus-Holstein beef cattle for meat production. Our most recent additions are two charming miniature donkeys named Thistle and Mary, who serve as our spirited alarm clocks in the morning and vigilant sentinels during the day, greeting visitors with their spirited braying.
Beyond breeding exceptional animals that adhere to the highest standards, we are committed to sustainable, regenerative, and all-natural farming practices. Our journey at Gracie's Gift 1770 Farm is a testament to our passion for agriculture, our reverence for tradition, and our dedication to nurturing the land, our own well-being, and the broader community.