08/13/2026
Some stories don’t just pivot—they replant themselves.
Mia and Andrew traded city blocks for open fields, leaving behind careers in finance, marketing, and media to revive something far older than any skyline: Lathrop Farmstead in Lebanon, Connecticut. What began as curiosity during the pandemic quickly grew into a full-rooted commitment to farming, community, and the land itself.
Their farm has been in Andrew’s family for seven generations, dating back to 1817. Today, they’re restoring that legacy from the soil up - reviving pastureland, planting orchards, and growing over 100 varieties of certified organic crops, all guided by regenerative practices and a deep respect for the environment.
And then, there are the maples.
Planted in 1876 to mark America’s Centennial, these trees are still standing. Each spring, their sap is hand-harvested to produce small batches of organic maple syrup. A literal taste of history, flowing from roots that have seen it all.
Through partnerships with local schools, food hubs, and pantries, Mia and Andrew are making sure their harvest reaches beyond their farmstand - nourishing the wider community and strengthening Connecticut’s local food system.
You can experience Lathrop Farmstead for yourself through their CSA or by visiting their Sunday farmstand at the Colchester Farmers Market.
Read more about CT’s certified organic farmers at ctgrown.org/organic
Funding was made possible by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service, Organic Market Development Grant, awarded and administered by the CT Department of Agriculture. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.
