A float from the OlþÄô Yale Farms participates in the Frontenac Homecoming Parade. The farm will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from September 29 through the end of October. The cost will be $11 per person. Keesha Hervey/the Morning Sun

YALE — Stephen Hipfl is used to building things. As the owner of Hipfl Construction he’s no stranger to unique projects.

However, his most recent project is a personal one. With the encouragement of his young daughter, Avery, Hipfl is opening a destination farm and pumpkin patch, Ol’ Yale Farm. The farm is located near Chicken Annies and Chicken Mary’s at 306 S. 250th.

“This was something daddy’s little girl was into, so daddy had to get it done for her,” Hipfl said.

Hipfl said the farm is several years in the making, and he feels is a good way for him to be involved in the community.

“This is a good way to give back to the area,” Hipfl said. “I also think that Crawford County needs more things to do, so hopefully we can help with that.”

Ol’ Yale Farm will open September 29 with over 15 different attractions. Hipfl said he wanted to include things that would be fun for children like a petting zoo, panning for gold, duck races, a zip line, 24 foot blow up slide, and a trike track — while still considering their parents.

“We have an old mining house that we’ve turned into a general store with old fashioned candy, soaps, crafts, and jewelry for sale,” Hipfl said.

The farm will sell pumpkins during the fall season and will have a full range of concession style foods and homemade donuts available. It will also boast a full smore area and a barrel train with depot.

Hipfl said his farm isn’t just a place to have fun, but also learn about the local history.

“We have a replica infinity mineshaft, as well as a some signs with the history of the area,” Hipfl said.

He hopes the farm will be a popular place for schools, who are welcome this year. Hipfl said he has big plans for the farm. He plans to continue to expand the offerings during the holiday season and someday put up a venue building.

“We know that since it is our first year so there may be a learning curve,” Hipfl said. “We hope everyone has fun this year and for many in the future.”

The farm will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from September 29 through the end of October. The cost will be $11 per person. More information on Ol’ Yale Farms is available on their facebook page, www.olyalefarms.com

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Ol’ Yale Farm set to open