Hanover’s last dairy farm to diversify operation with new creamery

Contributed Report

ASHLAND—In a rapidly urbanizing area of Central Virginia, one dairy-farming family is taking the opportunity to tell their agriculture story and connect with consumers directly, by appealing to their palates.

Thomas E. Stanley & Sons Dairy, Hanover County’s last remaining dairy, recently hosted a “Cow to Cone” class for Randolph-Macon College students.

“I thought it would be a good opportunity to get this generation out on a farm,” said Missy Stanley, who led the class. “I gave them a dairy tour, we talked about the benefits of milk, and we ate ice cream. Many of them have never stepped foot on a farm, and they asked a lot of great questions.”

Her husband’s grandfather bought the dairy from an aunt in 1941. The family has operated it ever since.

“It’s been a dream of ours to open a creamery for decades,” Stanley continued.