It began with a spark of inspiration and ignited into something much bigger than anything we had imagined.
In many ways we have a 16 year old to thank for everything The Pickwick Place has become today. You see, it all started back in 2014 when soon-to-be sixteen year old, Ethan Stuckey, asked his parents for a half acre of land. The Stuckey’s are longtime dairy farmers and Ethan grew up on the farm, but thanks to a little nudge from his brother, Ethan knew he was called to plant an orchard. To do this, he needed land.
Fast forward a few months and not only did Ethan get his ½ acre but about 39.5 more when his parents purchased 40 acres and 3 run-down brick barns at the site of the former Chuck-Walt Farms (later named Pickwick Farms).
The Stuckey’s knew they couldn’t go on this crazy adventure on their own! So through many prayers and timely conversations they invited Greg and Rose Hartschuh as well as Chris and Andrea Schimpf to become partners. Seeing the same potential as the Stuckey’s, both couples said yes, and everyone quickly began dreaming up plans for the space from there!
We quickly realized very early on that this project was (and continues to be) so much bigger than any of us. What started as a nudge between brothers become a full flame of inspiration. Combine that with God’s timing, connections, and relationships, and here we are today. Where it will lead in the future, we can only imagine, but we want to say a massive THANK YOU to everyone who has believed in us and supported us along the way. Everyone who walks through one of our barn doors is part of our family, and we can’t wait to meet you!
We have a clear understanding that our success has very little to do with us. We are the conduits that connect other small businesses with the community. We are simply the little group that said yes to something bigger than ourselves. The real heroes are the vendors, the employees, and the customers. We have many vendors connected to The Market, The Cafe, The Loft, The Stalls, and The Greenhouse. Each one has made a decision to believe in us and are committed through the ups and the downs. It’s also our employees. These individuals have caught the vision and want to provide an amazing experience for all. Finally, it’s our community who cheers us on. You each have the opportunity to vote with your dollars. Every one of you that shops at The Market and The Stalls and eats at The Cafe or holds an event at The Loft voices an opinion about what kind of world in which to live. The vision only works if you help it along. We appreciate all of you–the synergy we are building in this town is incredible. Get excited! The future looks bright!
Sincerely,
The “HACKLES” – Hannah, Andrea, Chris, Kent, Laura, and Ethan
History of the Barns
The farm’s founder, Charles Michael was a dairyman through and through. His prized top-producing cows put his farm, and Bucyrus, on the map. He died in 1921, leaving his farm to his two sons, Charles (Chuck) and Walter (Walt). The two operated Chuck-Walt Dairy after their father’s passing. But Walt also held top-management positions in the corporate world and developed a deep passion for horse racing. In the early 1950’s, Walt gained full-ownership of the family farm, and changed the name to Pickwick Farms. The dairy cattle were sold and Standardbreds soon filled the pastures.
Stephan Smith, a star race horse, was the farm’s prize stud. Stephan Smith’s success led to the farm successfully experimenting with artificial insemination of mares, nearly unheard of at that time. Their work produced double the offspring of an average sire and won worldwide acclaim for Pickwick Farms. Over time, the horses left and the barns were basically abandoned. We are honored to be able to honor the heritage of this space and bring new life to the farm and to introduce our guests to a little piece of history, right here in Crawford County.
See the Transformation
Three Barns. One Pickwick Place.
The Pickwick Place is a destination, a place to stop and stay a while. If you’re from this community, then it is a place to run into your friends and neighbors. If you are from out of town, then it is a place to connect with nature and learn about where your food comes from. Either way, we want to get to know you personally. We hope you always find us friendly and welcoming.
The Market: From seed to shelf, find Ohio’s freshest produce.
The Loft: Make memories of a lifetime in this special space.
The Stalls: Find one of a kind items from area artisans here.
