Synopsis on the History of Clark Farm and how it grew. Narrated by Phil Clark |
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We thank God for his favor toward us
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My grandfather bought this farm back in the 40’s. At that time it was 76 acres. Highway 74 bypass came through and took 16 acres, which left 60 acres in 1983. My grandfather Watson, gave his son George the farm in the early 50's to raise cattle and grow vegetables to take to market. My grand father Watson Clark was a Blacksmith here in Rutherfordton for many years, living on Court Street uptown, until there wasn't much need for Blacksmith's anymore. In 1983 Uncle George died not ever seeing the new 74 by pass running through his farm. He willed the farm to his brother John Clark also of Rutherfordton. John in turn sold me the 60-acre farm some years later in 1994. I actually didn't want the farm, my mother who lived in Florida at the time encouraged me to buy it and even made the small down payment. I was single and on my way to California, farming was not one of my goals. So, off to California to pursue an acting career. I was there for one year. An earthquake convinced me to return to the east. I moved to Wilmington, North Carolina to continue my acting career. I pursued secondary support and ended up in the Medical Supply business in 1995. In 1997 I pursued another dream. I started a Dinner Theatre in Wilmington, called "Cape Fear Dinner Theatre". I produced,Directed and even directed myself in several of the shows. My now wife continued the Medical, while I ran the Theatre. You ask why? When I was 25 years old I made a list of ten things I wanted to do by the time I turned 50 years old. I do not have enough time and space to go through all of them, but I've been a Policeman, Pilot, Flight Attendant, Butcher, Actor, Singer, owned numerous businesses, some failures some successes, above all others I'm a Disciple of Jesus Christ. This life realm as we know it, is not a dress rehearsal, you have one chance to do all you can do and all you want to do, and as long as you don't hurt anyone on the way and help others as you go you can do it all. I'm living proof that "What you can perceive, you can achieve". My heart is to encourage you, not to brag. Include God in your plans and all things are possible.
My wife Gena and I moved to the farm December 2001 with several rugged, rocky, washed out roads. We cleared a spot for a double wide home until we get our dream log house built. Weekends and Holidays were spent cutting, cleaning, planting trees, bushes and flowers. July 9th, 2003 we opened the farm and started selling Exotic Hot Peppers, fresh Vegetables and Vine Ripened Tomatoes.
Read the newspaper report for more detail, titled “Shiloh Grower” Every summer we have Exotic Hot Peppers, vine ripened tomato's and fresh vegetables. Let's not forget to mention the infamous “White Tomato”. We also have Tropical plants, exotic trees and flowers that you can't find anywhere else in the near area.
We have several beautiful park areas where you can sit and relax, counting the many different species of butterfly's or just enjoy the scenery. “Yaw come bring a sandwich and a drank, sit back and enjoy the flars”. We also, will have Checker's and Horseshoe contest. If you play either, give us a call to sign you in for the Saturday contest.
June of every year is our Annual Barbeque. We have Beef and Pork barbeque cooked and smoked in hickory wood all night long for a great barbeque flavor. For all those that make any purchase, no matter how small, you will receive a succulent plate of Hickory smoked barbeque, Phil's homemade slaw, barbeque beans and cornbread.
Come out and meet Phil and Gena. The farm dogs Katie and Billy will greet you for some rubbin, they don't bite in daylight. You will find the best prices anywhere. We guarantee it. If you bring any coupon or sales ad for flowers, trees, bushes or plants from the local area, we will beat the price. Check our website often as we will be updating Pictures, the tour and projects going on here on the Farm. In February 1996, I cut a CD for my then Fiance Gena, for a Valentine's Day surprise. You can download one of the songs by clicking below. Download "I Know You" |