My best friend showed me the home that his great grandfather lived in. There are many such homes in Michigan but this one was a time capsule.
While riding my motorcycle through country roads in Northern Colorado, I recently passed a quaint and beautiful property with some appealing old structures. In short order I knew I had to turn around and I am very glad I did.
I was going to ring the door bell and ask for permission to take a few photos when I came upon Judy Firestien and her mother Ruth. They were quite gracious about giving me permission to wander the property and gave me some information about this historic site. The tractor below is named “Ollie”
Officially this property is called the Von Trotha-Firestien Farm at Bracewell and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since May, 2009. This property is long associated with the development of irrigated farming, sugar beet cultivation, and livestock feeding. The interesting variety of buildings date back to the early 1900s and represent materials that have been recycled and in some cases brought to this farm from other properties.
The railroad box car was moved to this property in the 1940s.
There used to be a chicken house located right behind the gas pumps but on June 29th, 2012, a micro-burst suddenly appeared and destroyed the building. Good thing there were no chickens inside!
Wandering around this property made me feel joyous and child-like. There was not only a sense of history there, but it had a friendly feel to it. I found a patch of grass that had some great light. I thought it had a magic quality to it.
The interior of one of the out buildings revealed a time worn beauty.
The farm is still active and is presently growing corn, oats, and alfalfa. And a few peaches!
There were many beautiful things I found on my stroll and they included this old bench which hints at time, work, history, and sweat.
I also found some floral arrangements including this well crafted and creative display.
A property that is well cared for includes watering to keep flowers and plants healthy.
I was so taken with Ollie the tractor I thought he deserved a closer look.
If you would like additional information go to www.BracewellFarm.com
All images and content © 2012 Michael Fiveson
I returned to visit my curious little friend to find him moving slowly. There is another little burro there who came to me quickly while my friend approached more carefully.
I gave the healthier burro with the dark face some sugar cubes but could not get my little friend to come close enough to take one and when I tossed one to him he showed no interest. He was not moving well and I wondered if the dark burro didn’t rule this roost..
When it came time for me to leave I told my little friend I would return soon with some apples or carrots and told him to be well. This odd little burro has a real cute face.
© 2012 Michael Fiveson