The Robb Family Farm

September 7, 2007
From the covered bridge, we drove through Brattleboro, looking for route 9 west. We decided to find and visit the Robb Family Farm, that we first found on the internet, searching for Maple Syrup farms (www.vermontmaple.org/visit.html);
Charles Robb Sr (802) 257-0163, 827 Ames Hill Road, Brattleboro, Vt. 05301E-Mail: robbfarm@together.net, Website: http://www.robbfamilyfarm.com/
We met Helen Robb, a delightful woman, who spent a good hour showing us the farm operations. We must have sounded like complete bumpkins, oo’ing and ahhh’ing at the cows, the chickens, the cats, and especially the cow pies that seemed to have filled up the groves in my shoes. Really, it was delightful.

Thank you Helen. We then went to the sugar house to see what it takes to produce maple syrup. Imaging taping 2,400 maple trees, collecting the precious sap, then boiling it for hours to reduce it to the amber liquid I’ve become more than fond of. Notice the magnificent maple tree right in the front yard. Helen told us her mother-in-law planted it about 45 years ago. It's big enough for a double tap, which, apparently, has regenerative powers, just like when we give blood, only sweeter. On the other hand, how would the tree complain? Behind Helen's wonderful home, notice the very large maple trees behind it. Just magnificant!

Of course, we had to order a good four pints each and will enjoy every golden drop. I included the Robb family web site, in case you’re inclined to order their delicious syprup, especially appropriate as wedding tokens for each guest (note Vicky’s impressive work).
Please enjoy these pictures and know that the Robb’s were wonderful people to visit.

A paved road for the bikes was the only thing missing.