Arvgården, the 118 acre property acquired by the Coopers in 1996, had not been owner occupied since 1988. Efforts began in 1997 to return the property to its former status as a working farm.
Barn restoration started with rebuilding the 40ft X 60 ft addition to a traditional timber frame bank barn in anticipation of the arrival of the first group of sheep. The flock of Corriedale sheep has grown to include several generations. Corriedales produce excellent fleece for spinning and weaving as well as quality meat.
With only 17 acres of woods and a gently rolling terrain, most of the farm property is tillable. Over 60 acres is committed to hay. The cultivation of fruit trees and berries and a vegetable garden are additional attractive features. These yield produce for the breakfast table as well as the opportunity for urban guests to enjoy fresh foods at the source.
A spring fed pond is located approximately 1/4 mile from the house. This feature is attractive to birds, wildlife and guests as well.
We have built a pavilion at the edge of the meadow near the pond which is a perfect location to sit with a good book, or just relax. Bring a picnic from town, walk to the pavilion, and sit at the picnic table for lunch. Hosts Keith and Hilma Cooper
Arvgården is the result of nearly 10 years of planning to use our longtime interests as the basis for a second career. With retirement from Keith’s career as a history and economics teacher and Hilma’s as a public library director, we relocated to the Wellsboro, PA area from suburban Philadelphia. Here we have a setting that is an attractive destination for family, friends and guests while allowing us space to pursue life-long interests.
Hilma’s paternal grand-parents emigrated from Sweden in the early 1900's. As a student she visited Sweden where she spent a summer living with the Borgström family. Subsequent exchange visits and extensive travel throughout Sweden contributed to the Simply Swedish design of Arvgården.
Gardening, raising sheep, wood working, weaving, cooking - these activities coupled with the enjoyment of travel and meeting people who travel led to Arvgården. What better setting to share this menu of hobbies and interests than a farm with bed and breakfast?
Welcoming guests to Arvgården has proven to be as interesting and satisfying as anticipated. Guests seem to appreciate the setting and absorb the energy and enthusiasm we have found in developing second careers.