Suzanne Stewart
Staff Writer
Charles and Michelle Wilfong have been selling their farm- fresh meats from their home and farm in Dunmore for years, but it got to a point where it was hard to have set hours for customers, added to the fact that the farm is a little out of the way.
The couple was brainstorming what to do when they realized they had the perfect location and building waiting for them at their Corn Maze site near Cass.
Several years ago, the Wilfongs added a pavilion and small shop for concessions to CW’s Corn Maze and since the building was only used for a couple months out of the year, it was ready to become a more permanent store.
In July, Wilfong Farms Meats and More opened its doors and has been serving meats, produce and locally sourced items to the community.
“We have maple syrup from Steven and Sarah Simmons, Nathan and Erin Rittenhouse supply us with lettuce and honey,” Michelle said. “I’ve partnered with Alex Smith. She is actually the extension agent in Hardy County. She supplied us with goat milk soap and lotions. I partnered with another person for the elderberry syrup.”
Michelle said she hopes to partner with more producers to promote local farmers and products.
As for the meat, the Wilfongs have fridges full of beef and lamb that they raise themselves. Michelle said she is excited to expose the county to lamb products and share the meat with more customers.
“I’m trying to ramp it up to get a good rapport with customers about lamb because a lot of people don’t know a lot about it,” she said. “I’m trying to talk about the benefits of it and how great it can be and offer suggestions on how to cook it. I think it’s really helping.”
The store also has knick-knacks and toys that the Wilfong’s son, CW, helped to select.
On one wall of the store, you will find six canvas, black and white photos of the Wilfong Farm, and candid family portraits of the elder Wilfongs.
The shop is open Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For updates, visit the Wilfong Farms Facebook page.
