A WPA Mystery ... and Lots of Waterfowl

For many visitors, the pond is one of the favorite places to stop and relax while walking along our Farm’s road. Actually, there are three ponds in that area, and they are quite different today than hundreds of years ago.

In the 1930s, Rudolf Haffenreffer, then the Farm’s owner, expanded the pond system through a Works Progress Administration (WPA) grant. Interestingly, WPA projects were normally public construction projects, like roads and libraries, and the Farm was private land. We know that several other WPA projects took place on the Farm as well. However, we don’t know how Mr. Haffenreffer arranged for his private land to receive this benefit.

We do know Mr. Haffenreffer loved the pond area for reasons beyond being a spot for relaxation. He enjoyed hunting and had a duck blind in this area. He also raised and released about 100 ring-necked pheasants each year, which he and his friends hunted on the land. Another of his passions was raising Labradors and his dogs were at his side during his hunting expeditions.

Today, hunting is not allowed on the Farm and, instead, you will see birds bathing in these waters. Throughout the year, many species stop here to bath, drink and eat. The most common birds you will find are, of course, ducks, geese and swans. They are all regular visitors at the pond, and stay for extended periods of time. 

While hand-feeding the waterfowl is tempting, breads and grains can actually cause them harm. Thanks for not trying to feed our feathered friends. They are much happier eating natural foods such as berries and grubs.

Note: Plans at the Farm include developing a Celebration Grove around our ponds where friends of the Farm can dedicate a tree to mark a life event or honor a loved one. Watch for details.