Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) “Stories from the Farm” series continues November 19 with a feature on E. Cecchi Farms of Feeding Hills, Mass. Brothers Bobby and Michael Cecchi share the touching story of a farm passed down from generation to generation, their operational growing process and the many crops grown and sold on their farm.
At ESE, agriculture is our culture. Exhibitors journey to our fairgrounds from 26 states and two Canadian provinces for competitive events, reinforcing our stance as a national authority on agriculture. As a representative of the agrarian way, it is our responsibility to highlight the hardworking individuals from across New England who raise the livestock and natural produce that make their way to your family’s table.
In 2024, we launched the “Agriculture is Our Culture” initiative with a four-video series titled “Stories from the Farm.” Each video focuses on a local farmer or family upholding agriculture in our community, providing each with a platform to share their story and the effort they pour into their product. This year, “Stories from the Farm” first introduced sweethearts Colin Seigmund and Siri Swanson of Yankee Rock Farm of Champlain Valley, Verm. Now, we present E. Cecchi Farms and the brotherly bond that keeps the family’s multigenerational farm stand alive.
Erminio and Anna Cecchi first started their farm in 1946. The first greenhouse was erected in 1947, and it stood for 50 years before it was replaced with a modern model. The current farm stand was constructed in 1953. Erminio’s son, Robert Sr., ran the farm with his wife, Emily, through the 1970s-1980s. Now, his boys, Robert Jr. (Bobby) and Michael, continue the family business.
The greenhouse allows a wide selection of crops to grow despite harsh northern weather, including heirloom tomatoes, hot peppers, geraniums and more. The farm stand is open daily May through October and sells high quality cucumbers, squash, beans, rhubarb, asparagus and more authentic New England produce.
The Cecchi family once exhibited produce at The Big E when Bobby and Michael were children. Now, they supply fresh produce to the Moses Building for 4-H students to enjoy while they dorm during the Fair. This year, approximately 550 youth and 350 adult chaperones were guests in the Moses Building throughout The Big E, where they participated in group activities, rested after competitive exhibiting and enjoyed delicious food prepared with fresh, locally sourced produce.
To support agriculture right here in Western Massachusetts, consider visiting E. Cecchi Farms of Feeding Hills year-round or Farm-A-Rama and the Mallary Complex during The Big E, September 18 through October 4. For more information on the Agriculture is Our Culture initiative, check out our social media or head to EasternStatesExposition.com.