White Oaks Farm

About

A private beautifully restored farm estate in a lovely setting overlooking a small lake with roses, a spring perennial border, azaleas, and a 2-1/2 acre, 20-year-old prairie.

The Brookshers created an addition to the old brick farmhouse, following the footprint of the dogtrot that no longer existed and an outbuilding that was in complete disrepair. A Guest House and Stable add to the setting. An old log home was moved to the orchard and completes the view from the house.

Extensive tree plantings of mostly native species now feature strongly in the landscape, including specially grown trees from outstanding specimens on the farm; elms grafted from Dutch Elm disease-free American Elms and oaks from acorns from an amazing 300-year-old white oak.

The prairie overlooks one of the farm entrances, running along the highway as a linear ribbon of flowers and grasses that the quail love! The prairie’s diversity originates from the different soil types along its length. Flowering from mid-spring through summer, this Open Day is planned around peak flowering; meandering walking paths are mown through its length.

Grasses and asters dominate in fall. Annual burning of a third to a half and constant vigilance to control invasives are now the stewardship duties. The perennial border features heirloom peonies originally growing at an old farmhouse on the property; they were transplanted twice due to renovation work and are now happily expanding in the border. A ‘Coral Charm’ peony is the only variety added from “modern stock”!

Just north of the prairie is a historic cemetery that has been restored by the Brookshers.

2026 Open Day Date: Saturday, July 11

Open Day Hours: 10am–4pm