Broadview Christmas Tree Farm

History:

Broadview Farm was farmsteaded by our ancestors in 1849. Cash crops and sheep were the primary endeavors until 1947 when Ott and Betty Brian planted their first Christmas trees.

Through the years they covered many acres and eventually began selling them to neighbors and passersby. In 1972 their children and spouses joined in a joint Christmas tree operation, and Broadview Christmas Tree Farm became a reality.

As our tree plantation grew, so did our need for help-family and friends came to our rescue and continue to do so. Each tree harvesting season they appear like helpful elves. Each weekend night everyone gathers in the kitchen to enjoy a potluck supper and talk over the day.

Our farm operation involves year-round tasks, including planting seedlings, spraying for insects and weed control and pruning as well as harvesting during the holiday season.

We would not be able to operate without our crew of local kids. Over the years we have watched them learn the value of hard work and take pride in their efforts, as well as have fun working together. Even after their school years many return to help out and share memories.

The year we celebrated 50 years of choose and cut tree harvesting, we passed out a handmade Christmas tree ornament to each family as they came by our cashier window. When we gained sesquicentennial status (150 years same family line ownership), we gave out tree bags to celebrate. Over the years we have donated many Christmas trees to the community and participated in local fundraisers.

We enjoy celebrating the holidays with a traditional real tree as the centerpiece and so do our families and neighbors and especially our customers, who return year after year to make more traditional holiday memories. At the present time seven families live on this farm--the fifth through the eighth generations make the farm their home as do many pets, both dogs and cats.