Wilson Farm’s Irish History

As we prepare for Saint Patrick’s Day on March 17, we take a look at Irish influences in Lexington. Did you know that Lexington’s own Wilson Farm is rooted in Irish history? Let’s journey down memory lane and discover more about Wilson Farm’s Irish roots.

Wilson Farm was Founded by Irish Immigrants

In 1884, Irish immigrants James Alexander Wilson, W.M. Wilson, and George Reynolds ventured to Lexington. Here, they bought 16 acres of land and rented the surrounding fields to farm. The three men collaborated to grow vegetables and plants and sell them for a profit. Some of these crops included cabbage, white turnip, celery, carrots, and beets. After growing their products, they would transport their vegetables to Quincy Market in Boston to be sold. 

In 1920, James Alexander left the business to his two sons, Walter and Stanley. Then in 1950, their sons Donald and Alan ran the business, where they also opened the retail stand we know today. Currently, the farm has 33 acres in Lexington and 500 additional acres in Litchfield, New Hampshire. 

The Wilson Farm’s stand was built in 1952, with help from Donald and Alan’s wives Betty and Lynne. It continued to be modified until it included heat and electric cash registers. When Alan’s son, Scott, took over the stand, he wanted to build a farm that was 8,500 square feet. The barn finally opened in 1996. 

While Wilson Farm has passed down generations, its Irish roots are alive and well. 

Wilson Farms Saint Patrick’s Day Selection

At Wilson Farm, you’ll find everything you need that’s on your grocery list including Irish delicacies for Saint Patrick’s Day. The store offers various Irish foods including corned beef, brisket, cabbage, Irish soda bread, Kerrygold butter, or Saint Patrick’s Day-themed cupcakes and chocolate-colored pretzels. 

If you’re looking to deck out your home in Irish gear, look for green carnations and shamrocks. You can even find your pot of gold without the help of a Leprechaun with the farm’s chocolate gold coins. 

Wilson Farm may be adapted for a modern world, but its start came from Irish immigrants fighting for the American Dream. With hard work, and a lot of Irish strength, it has become the successful farmstand it is today. Lexington honors Saint Patrick’s Day by celebrating the evolution of Wilson Farm; visit today and get your fix for Ireland.