Our History
A Legacy of Learning, Stewardship, and Love for the Land
More than forty years ago, actress and environmentalist Carmen Mathews dreamed of a place where people could step away from daily life and reconnect with nature. She envisioned New Pond Farm’s pastures, woodlands, and wetlands as a welcoming haven for people of all ages—a place to discover the beauty of the land and the importance of a working farm.
1975
A Dream Takes Root
Carmen started a small summer camp for inner-city children in a refurbished turkey coop. Campers from New York City spent a week feeding cows and chickens, picking vegetables, swimming, hiking, and exploring the farm’s natural habitats—moments of pure joy and discovery.
1985
A Vision Expands
With support from the Natural Science for Youth Foundation, Carmen formed a Board of Directors and established New Pond Farm as a 501(c)(3) year-round environmental education center. School field trips and family programs flourished, and the camp grew to include children from neighboring towns, fostering friendships and understanding across diverse backgrounds.
1987
Leadership and Lifelong Friendships
Ann Taylor became Executive Director, arriving with her family and over a decade of experience with the CT Audubon Society. Together with Carmen, the Farm Manager, and volunteers, they expanded the Farm’s reach and shared the wonders of the land with more people than ever.
1993
Growing Spaces, Growing Impact
The turkey coop was replaced with a bunkhouse, complete with heat, running water, and indoor plumbing. School programs grew to serve over 5,000 children annually. Membership expanded with festivals, classes, summer camps, and theater programs.
2004
A Transformational Leap Forward
A successful Capital Campaign raised $3 million to strengthen the endowment, upgrade infrastructure, and build the Learning Center on the site of the original coop and bunkhouse. Today, the Learning Center is the hub of activity—housing our Native American Museum, culinary classes, lectures, art shows, improv classes, and programs for all ages.
2007
A Farm of Distinction
Recognized for exceptional care of our animals and land, New Pond Farm became one of Connecticut’s Dairy Farms of Distinction.
TODAY
Embracing Our Future
We continue Carmen’s vision of a multigenerational space where the community can gather, learn, and explore the natural world. She believed nature is a powerful equalizer, bringing people together across backgrounds and generations. By connecting with the land that sustains us, we inspire understanding, stewardship, and a shared sense of belonging—carrying Carmen’s legacy forward for generations to come.