Carrying on a Tradition

Over the past few months, the Farm staff gathered together volunteers willing to carry on a very important tradition. Nancy Howard, long time worker and resident of the Farm as well as creator of the beloved stuffed animal Belties, decided to pass the torch to those who are eager to take on the task of crafting the popular souvenirs. Nancy has been making the Belties for decades now and donating them, with 100% of the proceeds going to support the Farm’s community programs. There is no doubt that these stuffed animals are so popular because they are cute, cuddly and the proceeds go to a great cause.

The Farm staff felt strongly that the tradition of the stuffed Belties should continue, so the call went out and volunteers responded. Volunteers showed up for two days in January, with sewing machines and scissors in hand, ready and willing to learn from the master craftsman, Nancy. Many patterns were cut, pieces were sewn together, animals were stuffed, and the finishing touches were sewn by hand - including the blue ribbons. Each Beltie is individually made with a unique personality. If you are interested in sewing or buying some stuffed Belties, please call the office at 236-2739.