Johnson Family Farm in Hambden Township Celebrates 150 Years of Agricultural Success
The Johnson Family Farm in Hambden Township is marking a significant milestone this year as it celebrates its 150th anniversary. The farm, originally established in 1874 by Dave Johnson’s great-great-great-grandfather, has stood the test of time by adapting to changing needs and trends in the community.
Over the years, the farm has transitioned from primarily providing dairy products and crops to expanding into maple syrup production, timber management, and landscaping services. The integration of a landscaping division in 1982 led to the creation of Mapledale Farms Inc., which now supplies topsoil, mulch, gravel, and poly-furniture to both retail and wholesale customers.
Dave Johnson, the current head of the enterprise, attributes the farm’s longevity to innovative business practices and a focus on meeting the evolving needs of the local community. He emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and maintaining a strong work ethic, values that have been passed down through eight generations of the Johnson family.
In addition to their commitment to sustainable practices, such as recycling waste oil and creating biofuel from vegetable oil, the Johnsons are actively involved in community service. Dave serves as a Hambden Township trustee and heads the Chardon Rotary, volunteering and fundraising for various programs in the area.
As the Johnson Family Farm looks towards the future, Dave Johnson is confident that the legacy of the farm will continue to thrive through future generations. With a deep connection to the past and a dedication to serving the community, the Johnson Family Farm stands as a historically significant and enduring symbol of Northeast Ohio’s agricultural heritage.