THE ROOM TO GROW CAMPAIGN

Over 200 years ago, the O’Brien family came from Ireland to St. John’s and built a farm that still stands today. While the farm tells the story of how agriculture started on the Northeast Avalon, we believe the revitalized farm will have the potential to influence the future of farming here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Whether it’s tending a small garden plot, raising bees or tapping maple trees, more and more people are rediscovering their close connection to the land and the importance of growing their own food.

The majority of early farmers in and around St. John’s were of Irish origins and the O’Briens were an example of that. Aly O’Brien, the last of the family, was a Gaelic speaker who taught the language to others. The O’Brien Farm and Learning Centre, together with the newly-restored Thimble Cottage (built circa 1850), will provide a chance for visitors to learn about the fascinating story of Irish settlement and culture in our province while enjoying this lush, peaceful centre of learning in the middle of the city.

You can help make the O’Brien Farm Learning Centre a reality you by donating to our Room to Grow Campaign.

OUR MISSION

The O’Brien Farm Foundation manages the 30-acre historic O’Brien Farm. The goal of the Foundation is to preserve and promote the Farms' cultural and land resources for future generations. 

The Foundation will create programming that educates the public, especially youth, about the importance of preserving green spaces to maintain our contact with nature.

It will work with other organizations that promote local food security, organic gardening, sustainable land practices, the history of farming, and Irish Heritage.