The Farm Family of the Day program recognizes 11 farm families – one for every day of the N.C. State Fair – who work hard every day to impact our state’s agriculture industry. Families either nominated themselves or were nominated by members of the community. Thanks to Tractor Supply Company for sponsoring the program, which will run from Oct. 13-23.
Hearn Pecan Farm in Albemarle has more than 90 pecan trees at their farm, which has been in the Hearn family for four years. There are two generations of Hearns working the farm, with a third coming in February 2022. Gran, Katherine, and Susie Hearn are the folks that keep the farm running efficiently.
After harvesting pecans, Hearn Pecan Farm brings them to a commercial kitchen in Charlotte where they are candied and packaged. They also work in a variety of retail stores in the Charlotte area. Hearn Pecan Farm also sells their pecans at local Farmers Markets.
The family emphasizes the importance of agriculture at their farm by incorporating educational information about their pecan process to customers. Also, part of the profits that Hearn Pecan Farm produces is donated to local charities and organizations.
The family’s favorite thing about farming is the sense of community it provides. “From our neighbors, to our customers and other farmers, we feel a sense of purpose and passion in the work we put into our farm,” Susie Hearn says, “We crafted our pecans to bring people and families together.”
As North Carolina natives, the Hearn family has always looked forward to the events at the N.C. State Fair. From playing games to watching crafters from different parts of the state, the N.C. State Fair is always a memorable experience for this family. However, their favorite part about the N.C. State Fair is the food.
If you see the Hearn family today on the fairgrounds, be sure to thank them for their hard work throughout the years as well as their contributions to charities and organizations. We are honored to have them as the Farm Family of the Day for October 22nd. We look forward to watching this farm develop and contribute to the agricultural industry.
