Meet the Maker: Hickory Nut Gap Farm

Hickory Nut Gap has always been an important gateway across the Blue Ridge. For thousands of years Native Americans lived and hunted this land. The modern history of Hickory Nut Gap Farm began in 1916, with the arrival of Jim and Elizabeth McClure from Illinois. They fell in love with an old inn and its surrounding farm. Henceforth, Elizabeth devoted herself to restoring the inn and its landscaping, while Jim learned firsthand about the many difficulties of mountain agriculture.

In 2009 a conservation easement was placed on the farm’s 350 acres of working farmland and forests, preserving Hickory Nut Gap Farm for the generations to come. The farm is currently enjoying a wonderful renaissance. Grass-fed beef, and pastured pork and poultry are raised and sold; certified organic apples are harvested; and many varieties of organic berries are grown. They provide an outstanding example of healthy land stewardship. They are also generous enough to invite others to share the family farm experience. Drop by their beautiful farm and their well-stocked farm store.

You can also find them online at www.hickorynutgapfarm.com