18. Damon Farm

Edward Damon had a working farm with cattle, horses, and crops. He was an active member of the Concord Farmers’ Club from 1859 to 1869. As did all members, Damon hosted one meeting annually and presented the introductory essay. Over the decade, his topics ranged from the “Culture of Flowers” and “Soiling of Milch Cows” to “Agriculture in Common Schools” and “The Farmer’s Children—What is the best means of educating them?” For the 1860-61 season (the year he served as president), his topic was “Small Fruits,” which is shown below.

Throughout their lives, both Calvin and his son Edward treasured the time they spent on the farm. It wasn’t much, as both men were usually working at the mill, and perhaps for that reason it was so deeply appreciated.

Henry F. Smith observed:

“He was fond of out-door pursuits and took pleasure in his farm and growing crops, and delighted in a stroll in the woods and fields. He was a lover of nature and a close observer of her varying moods. He was fond of animals, had good horses, several of which he drove for years, and raised them himself . . .”