The History of Shady Lane Farm

Shady Lane Farm is located in Beaver Brook, Colchester County, NS. Beaver Brook received its name from early settlers because of the many beaver dams along the brook. Over the years, the beaver population declined, however we have seen indications of their return. Many dairy farms are located in this area because of its rich fertile soil. The farm has over 400 acres and boasts many majestic rolling green pastures while the meandering Beaver Brook flows peacefully through the property on  its way to the Cobequid Bay. In the spring when the rain is heavy the brook will over flow causing flooding on the intervale land. The water recedes quickly leaving the land even more fertile. In the 1800s the farm was owned by Ed Crowe, then sold to Everard Clarke and his son sold the farm in 1955 to John & Vivian (Scott) Blaauwendraat. In 1963 John and Vivian purchased the adjoining farm of Mary Archibald, and the old barn still stands on the site of the original farmstead.

John was the oldest son of Jan and Janna Blaauwendraat. Immigrating from Scherpenzeel GLD Holland in 1948 along with 3 brothers, he left his 9 siblings and parents behind to run the family farm, "De Pol". John and Vivian's oldest son John and his wife Betty (Maskill), bought the farm in 1986. Many changes have been made over the years and with the hope that the farm remains in the family, expansion is inevitable. Meet us and our children (clockwise from left) Betty, John, John, Marie and Brian.