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History of Marmon Valley
Farm
40 years of Family Farm Fun!
Marmon Valley Farm just celebrated 40 years of operation and 40 years God’s
marvelous grace in using the camp to bring many people to the Savior, our
Lord Jesus Christ. Here’s a brief look back at the beginning of it all.
Historically Marmon Valley Farm
sits on land that was once familiar to Wyandot and Shawnee Indians, in fact,
Chief Tarhe’s Wyandot village existed where Zanesfield stands today.
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The camp was also home to legendary frontiersmen Simon
Kenton at one time. The name Marmon Valley Farm was adopted by the Wiley’s
in recognition on first homesteaders to settle the valley back in 1805. Two
of the Marmon homes remain on the property today. The camp itself is
actually spread out over three formerly neighboring farms which were
gradually acquired over time. The Louden farm, now the stable area of the
camp, was the first property attained. Bill Wiley’s dream in 1964 was to
open a farm camp for children where they could experience "real" farm life
for a week. The early years emphasized farming, gardening and small animal
care. However, it didn’t take long for the horse program to take off after
being introduced on a much smaller scale than you see today. |
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Uncle Bill, as he would become
known, began the camp and retreat facility by opening their house to guests.
The summer staff of 1964 consisted of 4 staff members. As word about Marmon
Valley spread and the Wileys worked hard to pull it off the number of guests
increased, as did the need to expand both the camp and the riding stable. .
In 1970 the camp acquired the
Thompson farm, which allowed for more riding trails and sleeping quarters,
hay storage and a dining hall. The mid seventies also brought about new
goals for Marmon Valley Farm as Uncle Bill and Aunt Phyllis decided to
develop a stronger Christian emphasis in the camping program by presenting
the gospel of grace through Jesus Christ to all campers who attended.
Proclaiming the gospel and encouraging young people to walk in a Christ-like
manner remain central to our purpose to this day. |
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As the Lord blessed, the camp grew in size and
attendance. An all-purpose activity barn was constructed in the late
seventies, as well as, new housing facilities for campers and guests. In the
early years, many campers lodged in tents or hay lofts around camp, a trend
that was replaced by bunkhouse style cabins. Another land purchase brought
the farm’s total acreage to its current size of 450 acres. During the mid
1980’s directorship was handed down to Uncle Bill’s son "Wrangler" Matt.
Matt and Kathy along with their 5 children and a committed staff have
carried on the rich heritage of family farm fun started by Uncle Bill and
Aunt Phyllis. Currently Bill and Phyllis Wiley reside in Jewet, Ohio where
Uncle Bill oversees the operation of Faith Ranch and directs CCHI (Christian
Camps Horsemanship International.) |
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In the early nineties a historic log cabin was hauled to
the camp and reconstructed, to be used as guest lodging, and a giant size
covered wagon was constructed for groups to lodge in as well. |
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The later
part of the nineties brought the lost of three farm friends and volunteers
and the introduction of two memorial projects: The Butler Memorial Play Barn
in memory of Jeff Butler and The Picnic Shelter, a project constructed in
memory of Cal Cole and "Wild" Bill Smith. The program and facilities
continue growing and developing as we add to and refine many areas of
operation. In 2001 a 250’ x 150’ indoor arena was constructed allowing for
year ‘round riding lessons, rainy day alternatives and horse show events.
Currently Marmon Valley offers nine weeks of summer camp. Aside from camp we
offer a large year round riding stable with 130 horses and ponies for rental
and a retreat facility. |
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The grounds are open to the public
for picnicking and playing. Marmon Valley Farm also provides three school
field trip programs that allows for unique farm experiences.
Thanks to God’s faithfulness and the patronage of
our guests, Marmon Valley Farm has been operating as a summer camp and
retreat center for 40 years now. Thank you! |
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