Our Story | Rock Hill Farm
Rock Hill Farm began with a big dream—and a leap of faith.
John Blumberg, born in the Bronx and raised in suburban Dutchess County, NY, spent his teenage years imagining a life on a livestock farm. In 1989, he married and started a family, eventually moving to a house on forty acres with three young kids and a wild idea: “Let’s start a farm.”
That dream took root in 2001 when a 5,800-pound team of oxen—Mike and Milt—arrived. With them, Rock Hill Farm was officially born.
From the start, John’s oldest son Danny showed an uncommon dedication to farm life. Even as a pre-teen, he was all in—driving tractors, working with large animals, and helping build the daily rhythm of the farm. Danny’s passion became the driving force behind expanding from a single team of oxen to a thriving 30-animal operation.
For over 20 years, Rock Hill Farm has focused on draft animals, including three teams of oxen and dozens of powerful Belgian and Percheron horses. Over the years, the Blumberg family has also raised riding horses, beef cows, mini donkeys, mini horses, and Nigerian dwarf goats.
In 2011, a second property—75 acres in Pawling, NY—was purchased to support the growing needs of the farm. In 2023, after nearly three decades, the original Brewster location was sold and all operations were consolidated to the Pawling property, now proudly serving as home base for Rock Hill Farm.
The name Rock Hill Farm is a tribute to John’s roots and family history, and the generations of hard work and heart that continue to shape its future.
John often credits the success of the farm to the encouragement and support of his extended family—and to the next generation, especially Danny, whose commitment and love for the animals has kept the spirit of Rock Hill Farm alive and thriving.
Mission & Values
At Rock Hill Farm, our mission is to cultivate the connection—between people, animals, and the land. We are dedicated to creating a working farm that serves not only as a home for beloved animals, but also as a place of purpose and healing for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and our broader community. Through hands-on experiences, wagon rides, and meaningful partnerships, we bring people together in an environment grounded in care, respect, and possibility.
Our Core Values
1. Compassion & Care
We treat our animals, guests, and community with dignity and kindness. Every interaction is rooted in respect—for each other, and for the natural world.
2. Service to Others
We believe in giving back. Supporting veterans and individuals with disabilities is at the heart of what we do, and we strive to offer opportunities for connection, confidence, and joy through meaningful work and interaction on the farm.
3. Stewardship of the Land
We are caretakers, not just owners. From the draft horses to the smallest goat, from the fields to the fences, we honor our responsibility to maintain a healthy, thriving environment for generations to come.
4. Family & Legacy
Built by a father and son, Rock Hill Farm is a reflection of hard work, heart, and shared vision. Our story is rooted in family, and every person who visits becomes part of that story.
5. Purpose Through Work
We believe that working with animals and the land can be a powerful form of healing, growth, and purpose. The rhythm of the farm offers structure, pride, and peace to those seeking connection and renewal.
Meet The Team
John and Danny Blumberg, a father-and-son team, have operated Rock Hill Farm together since Danny’s 10th birthday—nearly 25 years ago.
What began with a collection of restored antique tractors and a single team of Lineback oxen has grown into a thriving operation with over 20 animals, making appearances at events throughout the tri-state area.
The Blumbergs manage 100% of the farm's daily responsibilities, with John handling the early mornings and Danny taking over in the evenings.
Years ago, they discovered that the gentle nature and patient temperament of their draft animals made them an ideal match for members of the special needs community seeking safe, meaningful connections with animals. Since then, Rock Hill Farm has become a beloved presence at schools, senior living communities, and military rehabilitation programs.
The Blumbergs have also connected their farm work to their “day job” as founders of True North Financial Solutions, a full-service financial advisory firm. True North clients, staff, and representatives have enthusiastically supported the farm’s mission—often volunteering at community events and lending a hand where it matters most.
