(HARTFORD, CT) – As Connecticut prepares for Fourth of July celebrations, the state is highlighting a defining thread that connects its Revolutionary War past to its agricultural present: a long, proud history of feeding communities. With America 250 approaching, Connecticut is celebrating both its legacy as the Provision State and the remarkable resilience of farms that have been operating for more than 250 years - including Field View Farm in Orange, believed to be the oldest continuously operated farm and business in Connecticut and among the oldest in the United States.
“Connecticut’s identity as the Provision State is rooted in the strength of our farms - some of which have been operating since before the United States was founded,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “As we celebrate America 250 and look ahead to the next 250 years, we’re proud to support a vibrant agricultural sector that honors our history while building a resilient future for local food. This Fourth of July - and every day - I encourage residents to make CT Grown part of their meals and their shopping routines. Every local purchase strengthens our farms and our communities.
These historic farms represent more than longevity - they embody the enduring strength of Connecticut agriculture. Field View Farm, established in 1639, represents 12 generations of family stewardship. Its long history includes surviving a devastating 1997 fire and rebuilding to continue dairy operations and serve customers today. It stands as a living example of the agricultural strength that helped define Connecticut during the Revolutionary War and continues to shape the state’s food system.
Connecticut’s $4 billion agricultural sector includes dozens of multigenerational farms operating 100, 200, and even 300 years, illustrating the role agriculture has played in feeding communities since the nation’s founding. Many are open to the public through farm stands, pick-your-own operations, and more than 120 farmers’ markets statewide.
This summer, CT Grown farmers are carrying that legacy forward with an abundance of seasonal products. Sweet corn, berries, meats, shellfish, dairy, and vegetables are widely available for holiday gatherings. These offerings reflect not only the hard work of producers, but also strategic state investments that strengthen Connecticut’s food system, expand access to local food, and support long-term farm viability.
Connecticut continues to advance initiatives supported by lawmakers that enhance agricultural infrastructure, boost processing and distribution capacity, expand farm to school efforts, and increase access to locally grown food across all communities. These coordinated investments are helping farms modernize, reach new markets, and meet growing consumer demand for fresh, local products.
Residents are encouraged to celebrate the Fourth of July by incorporating CT Grown products into their holiday meals and by visiting local farmers’ markets, farm stands, and retailers. A directory of CT Grown producers and markets is available at CTGrown.org.
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) mission is to foster a healthy economic, environmental, and social climate for agriculture by developing, promoting, and regulating agricultural businesses; protecting agricultural and aquacultural resources; enforcing laws pertaining to domestic animals; and promoting an understanding among the state's citizens of the diversity of Connecticut agriculture, its cultural heritage, and its contribution to the state's economy. For more information, visit www.CTGrown.gov.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Rebecca Eddy, Rebecca.Eddy@ct.gov
860-573-0323
