Today's Rotary meeting was a field trip to the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm.
Staff of the Johnson County Poor Farm covered the history of the Farm, its mission and some of the projects that have been designed to meet the strategic plan for the use of this historic resource. The Poor Farm was founded in 1855 to provide farming work and a place to live for some of the county's indigent population. Initially, the 300 acres were used for row crops and dairy production. Today there are 160 acres remaining and the uses have evolved to support fresh produce gardening with acreage that is rented out to groups and individuals who are either starting food-related businesses or are recent immigrants from other countries. Some of the crop production is used to support area food pantries. Soon the Poor Farm will have a commercial kitchen available for use by catering businesses and groups that need sufficient kitchen space to support a local event. The Poor Farm is also developing event space. The County has also designated a portion of the Poor Farm for development of affordable housing.