A hill with history

Resting at about 1,400 ft, this now 10 acre farmette was home to a logging camp in the early 1900's. The original well handle pump is still standing, surrounded by evidence of a wooden cranking system to supply water and a raised cart path.

Moving here in 2015, we are the third family to live on the hill in the woods. A unique setting for this part of northeast Minnesota, large mature oak trees, red maples, birch, basswood and ironwood thrive in the elevated loamy soil.  The eastern spruce budworm has negatively affected the balsam fir that intermingle this ecosystem. We are working to remove dead and diseased conifers and establish forage area using silvopasture management practices. 

Brandon and Molly are both Biology graduates of the University of Minnesota Duluth and specialize in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Homesteading is their hobby and passion away from the computer screen. Alongside their young son, they enjoy learning and refining foundational practices, like canning, brewing, sewing, gardening, raising livestock, and endless homestead repairs.