The blast of Granny Smith chartreuse steals attention from the time-worn feed bin below. As written on the back, it is a gift from my great grandfather Frank Wheeler in 1888 to Lucie Howe Brigham, his bride from the farm next door. Both their homes, the Anderson-Wheeler and the Brigham Farms still stand today out at Nine Acre Corner (Rte. 117) in the Sudbury corner of Concord. The former supplies fresh produce to Main Streets Market & Cafe in Concord Center which for a century has been and continues to be Anderson family run. (www.mainstreetsmarketandcafe.com). The Brigham Farmstand is a rewarding destination with fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers grown on the property by sixth generation Brighams. (www.brighamfarmconcord.com)
Family legacies are priceless treasures which demand more unwavering love and labor than most can imagine. Seek out these gems with an appreciation of all that goes into carrying family businesses over generations. The beautiful box reminds what a thoughtful gift truly is and it reminds me of the incredible work my cousins do.
Information is available on the websites listed above as well as at the Concord Public Library Special Collections.