Welcome Friends,
We are a therapeutic educational farm located in Taylors, SC. We are home to rescued and miniature animals. We have miniature goats, pigs, horses, donkeys, cows, chickens, a llama, and Noel, the Greer Rescue pig. We network with current non-profit groups and parents to serve at-risk youth and children with disabilities. In addition, although we are not certified organic, we grow a variety of vegetables by OMRI standards. Starting in 2009, most of our produce will be available as pick-your-own. We also grow and sell ornamentals as the season allows. We offer eggs from free ranging chickens fed as close to an all natural diet as possible. We are proud to offer fresh local produce, ciders, jams, jellies, and SC honey at our farm store. To schedule a school, church or family tour / picnic call 864-968-9678 - we are here for you! Check out our Upstate Farm to Table Buyer's Group!
About Us,
We began as an idea to renovate a family farm into a place the community might enjoy and learn from. The Brookshires have a farming past that spanned some 100 years prior to the 1990's. After the passing of several of the "founders," the farm spent a time without animals or crops. Hellen Brookshire, married to the late Joe C. Brookshire, Jr., was pondering the farm, it's future and the positive results that animals brought to her grandson. Her grandson, who has autism, had always been drawn to animals and was gentle enough that animals of all kinds would approach him without fear. Being that both her son and daughter-in-law were involved in education, they often found that the children they taught had no idea which animals gave them their food. Funny stories of five year olds seriously believing that "chickens give you milk" and "hamburger comes from Bi-Lo" gave them reason for concern. The family realized the great disconnect from nature the current generations were experiencing. At the same time, while researching the use of animals and "pet therapy" miniature donkeys became a source of inspiration. Soon at Hellen's urging and support, the farm was undergoing a tremendous transformation. Eventually, all sorts of miniature and standard animals both purchased and rescued found a new home at Mini Miracles Farm. (AKA the Island of misfit toys).
Unfortunately, Hellen passed away (2007) before her dream was completely realized. Her son, daughter-in-law and grandsons continue the dream, working to develop it into a functioning reality. Several pilot programs working with at-risk youth and children with disabilities have shown tremendous potential. The Brookshires found that when youth find a purpose in caring for animals, plants, and mentoring children less fortunate than themselves, they can find a sense of self-worth. Youth also begin to realize choices for their behavior not previously exercised.
It is to this end that the Brookshires hope to expand the use of their farm, networking with other youth organizations and Churches. The Brookshires wish to help develop opportunities and treatment models as well as grant and fund-raising capabilities for existing organizations assisting youth and children with disabilities.
If you are a youth organization with similar goals - please contact us! In addition, we are a small, but lovely, area of nature in an ever developing area. A place where hayrides and family picnics are close to home. Please join us!
Mailing address: 2530 Locust Hill Rd.
Taylors, SC 29687
Phone # 864-968-9678
Farm address: 708 Old Rutherford Rd.
Taylors, SC 29687
Email: nattybrook2@bellsouth.net
See our For Sale and Buyers Group Info. pages for Fresh local meats, produce and more!
