The Robb Farm was established in 1907 by Thomas and Christine Betterly, Hermon Robb’s grandparents. The large barn was moved from Halifax in 1912 and the farmhouse was built in 1914, both are still in use. The farm is currently run by Charles Sr., Helen, Charles Jr., and Karen Robb.
On August 4, 2011, the 105-year-old Robb Family farm in West Brattleboro, VT ended its multi-generational dairy operation by milking their last Holstein. Erratic milk pricing set at the federal level kicked many small farms in the teeth. Even with a more stable price, some have never recovered.
Vermont’s disappearing dairy industry claimed another victim when the farm announced it was leaving the milking business to focus on their Vermont maple syrup products, but also a brand-new line of naturally grown meats on the farm. The Robb family has long recognized the value of eating naturally-grown and local foods. The Robb Family Farm now offers an assortment of beef products containing no preservatives, antibiotics, or hormones. Now the family can control its own destiny without worrying about milk prices. They have even converted the old milking room into kitchen space to make their own value-added maple products, such as maple candy.
