The Legacy Behind
Old River Farm
Stew Simpson
The farmer...Stew was born October 27, 1921, fourth child born to Jemima McEachran and Fred Simpson. Stew started farming full time with his Dad and brother Doug at the age of 13 after completing Grade 10.
In 1996, Stew suffered a breakdown of his mental health which wreaked havoc on his family life. He fought his depression with connecting to the land, nature, community, and of course, his cows. He moved to the Old River Farm, an original Simpson settler farm on the Thames River across from where he grew up. Stewart’s interest in biological farming intensified and he took a personal vow to go back to his youthful days of farming organically.
He involved himself with many creative projects. He was very proud to introduce the pure North Devon cattle breed into Canada, a breed with the ability to thrive on grass, with superior gains in harsh climates. The Silo Project, his vision of a community centre where people could learn about sustainable farming took 15 years to complete. It was finished the year he died.
Honour the legacy
What's next...The Old River Farm will protect the water, soil, pollinators, and wildlife through the cultivation of broad-acre permaculture guilds, tall prairie grass, switch grass, cow pasture, and agro-forestry and sloped lands. We have almost 90 acres of river and creek sloped forests that are the last filter prior to Newbiggin Creek entering the Thames River.
We have a responsibility to wisely implement best management practices, pushing the envelope to introduce progressive designs and best management practices, working with people who share a regenerative vision of agriculture. We want our friends, family, and community to enjoy the Old River Farm. Regenerating the Old River Farm will enhance the health of the people who spend time there. This honours the legacy of Stew and his desire that the Old River Farm be a place of healing and demonstration.
