The Giles county countryside is looking beautiful as ever as the leaves turn and autumn greets us. This is a great time of year to visit our neighbors down the road, MILKY WAY FARM, so we thought we would tell you about them and take you on a little tour.
Milky Way Farm is indeed named for the dreamy, chocolate, caramel-filled Milky Way Candy Bar. Frank C. Mars, founder of Mars Candies, was responsible for the success of the candy bar through the 1930s during the Great Depression. During that time, he purchased land in Giles County, Tennessee and continued to build a large operation that included hundreds of workers, prized Hereford cattle and Thoroughbred horses that were settled on vast, lush acres of impressive barns and breathtaking views. The farm was one of the largest magnolia plantations in the south, and it had its own railway stop to transport product.
Frank Mars, unfortunately, died just a few years after purchasing the property and never saw the full potential of the farm that continued to run under the careful eye of his wife, Ethel. As a thriving horse breeding farm, they produced the 1940 Kentucky Derby winner, Gallahadion. Then in 1945, Ethel Mars passed away, the farm was sold, and the Milky Way Farm operation declined.
NEW LIFE AT MILKY WAY
Thankfully new blood has brought it back to life. The property is now owned by Charles Jones and his daughter Lynn Golden who have worked hard to revitalize the historic structures. Their words say it best, “We sincerely want to be good stewards of this historic landmark, using the farm to honor the God who created its beauty while maintaining the legacy of its founder to re-ignite the pride and fond memories of those who have worked to make the farm a Tennessee treasure.”
At the heart of this homestead is the 25,000 sq. ft. Tudor Revival manor house designed with incredible architecture and detail and everything grand. Big bedrooms (20 of them), 14 bathrooms, a main room with a hearth reaching to the sky and a dining room fit for a king, which boasts an eating table that measures 28ft x 12ft. The historic farm provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable storybook wedding or inspiring retreat.
Today Milky Way Farm operates as a special event and retreat facility, hosting various events for the public throughout the year. The historic property spans over 1,000 acres of pastureland and rolling hills with a few choice spots to take in a view for miles.
WE GIVE THANKS
Every January, our Col. Littleton staff enjoys a special breakfast at the big table. Once the rush of the Christmas season is over, we take time to appreciate the great year we had and to welcome in the new year.
For more information on Milky Way Farm:
Availability & Event Scheduling – (931) 808-2281
General Information – info@milkywayfarm.org
520 Milky Way Rd. • Pulaski, TN 38478
