Family Fun at Winslow Farm in Norton, Massachusetts

Winslow Farm is a haven, not only for its myriad of rescued animals, but for anyone looking for a fun and surprisingly relaxing activity in Massachusetts. Located in Norton, Massachusetts, the farm is located just off of Route 140 between Mansfield and Taunton. The farm features over 150 animals, many of whom visitors can pet and interact with.

Established in 1995, Winslow Farm's goal is to "provide love and care to the many animals without a home or for those that have been abused and/or neglected by their previous owners." They have certainly reached this goal. The wide variety of animals, including sheep, emus, peacocks, llamas (and more) all come with their own sad stories-but, luckily, Winslow Farm has given those stories a happier ending.

Volunteers and frequenters of the farm are full of inspiring stories about the animals that live on Winslow Farm. Many animals escaped slaughter or abandonment in various places in Massachusetts. There is a sheep, Athena, who, after jumping from a truck headed for the slaughter houses, lived for two years on route 495 in Middleboro, Massachusetts. Athena is just getting used to living on the farm and is currently working through some trust issues. Then there is the blind horse, Half Moon, who had pneumonia when he came to the farm. He suffered severe neglect but, luckily, Winslow Farm nursed him back to health and built him a temperature-controlled barn.

The environment of the farm is whimsical and eclectic, with small wooden houses dotting the landscape. In one house, you will find rabbits chomping on greens, with pictures of animals on the walls. In another, you will find the Winslow Farm general store which sells postcards, dream catchers, and even flip flops. On many days, the picnic area is completed by a roaring campfire and soft music. Oh, and let's not forget the custom-built wooden playground they added this year. The playground is always a flurry of activity where children can spend hours of fun.

While Winslow Farm is an ideal place to bring children, it's also a little Massachusetts retreat for adults, too. At Winslow Farm, you will be left alone to explore and relax. You can sit and watch Waterford, one of the resident pigs, play in the dirt. Or you can get to know one of the 87 cats roaming the property. If relaxation is more your speed, sit at a picnic table and read a book or explore the nature trail which leads through the farm's 62 acres of property. On Saturdays, you can also get a tarot reading by a local reader for a small fee.

In the Summer, you will also find Winslow Farm is the host of several Massachusetts fairs including a psychic fair, a Renaissance fair and a sheep shearing fair. These are exciting times at the farm for everyone. The space at Winslow Farm is also available if you are interested in holding your own event, meeting, or birthday party.

This sanctuary is the brainchild of founder and president, Debra White. Debra has a praise-worthy enthusiasm and passion for animals that shows in her attention to detail. She is always building homes for new animal arrivals and working to make the farm a welcoming place for visitors. Currently, Debra is building a shelter for two African Tortoises as well as a home for the farm's newest resident Napoleon, a pot-bellied pig. Winslow Farm has a steady stream of new residents, keeping volunteers busy and also making every visit a new experience.

While Winslow Farm is an ideal day trip in Massachusetts, there are a couple of things to prepare for before you make your trip. The bathroom is not overly glamorous (it's an outhouse). While the outhouse is clean, it's just good to know so there are no surprises. Also, weekends are currently the only days you can purchase refreshments, so be sure to pack food and beverages when you go or look into available dining options in Norton, Massachusetts.

Overall, Winslow Farm is one of Massachusetts's best hidden gems. It is a place to relax, meet with animals, undisturbed, and enjoy time with your family. Not only will you have a great day trip, but you'll also be supporting local conservation and a sanctuary for animals in need.

For more information about Winslow Farm visit their website at www.winslowfarm.com.