Cucurbit Farm began on School Street in Acton in 1896 as the homestead of the Christopherson family. It was passed through the generations to the Nelson family, who primarily used the property to grow asparagus, carrots, beets, and spinach.

Cucurbit has now entered its fifth generation as a family-run farm. It occupies 15 acres in Acton, as well as 60+ acres leased in Concord, Massachusetts. The farm’s Parker Street location is recognizable for its flower-lined farmstand and classic red barn with a weather vane topped cupola. In addition to Curcubit’s own flowers and produce, the farmstand features local meat and dairy, firewood, fresh fish, and more.

The farm is named for cucurbits, or Cucurbitaceae, which refers to any plant in the gourd family. The name was coined by fourth-generation owner Allen Nelson, who had a special affinity for growing cucurbits like butternut squash and pumpkins. Pumpkins are still a farm favorite, with 35 acres of the farm devoted to the seasonal gourd.

Photo courtesy of Cucurbit Farm

Sources: cucurbitfarm.org, wickedlocal.com