Many generations before us have been tillers of the soil on the precious land where we live. We are a fifth generation family of plantsmen at Stream Cliff and are very proud of our agricultural heritage. The history of Stream Cliff Herb Farm began more than 160 years ago. James Harmon, a bachelor from Maine, built the big barn and baked the bricks to build the house. He lived in a hollow tree while building his home. Upon his death, having no heirs, Mr. Harmon left the property and eight thousand dollars to the Methodist Church and it is from them that Betty Artz Manning's ancestors moved to the farm. James Harmon was the occupant during the Civil War when Morgan Raider's raided the farm in 1863, he died shortly after the raid and is buried nearby. Betty's father, John Artz, was born here on the farm. Her grandmother, Luella Tate Artz, was a quilter and gardener and it is to her memory that the quilt shaped gardens are dedicated. shortly after Gerald and Betty were married in 1965 they moved to her family's "home place." Always liking old things, Betty and Gerald soon began making traditional crafts. Gerald used Betty's grandfather's forge to blacksmith items and she made cornhusk dolls. Betty and Gerald soon opened a room in what is now the Country Store and had a few open house weekends around Christmas to sell their crafts. This was before dried flowers and wreaths were so popular. Gradually, Betty started growing many everlasting flowers and then more and more herbs until an herbal lifestyle was born.
When Gerald and Betty's children became adults they became involved in the business, too. Elizabeth studied art education and taught school for three years before managing Twigs and Sprigs Tea Room. Greg studied horticulture and worked in that field before becoming the horticulturist at Stream Cliff. The farm continues to evolve as we search for ways to provide our customers with memorable experiences and a feeling of peace and relaxation.
During the winter of 2004 Betty and Elizabeth painted the garden theme mural in the dining room. This was a wonderful way to enjoy the summer blooms in the winter months. We hope it brings you joy and adds to the memories of your visit to our family's farm.
