About the Farm: A Century of Roots in Michigan's Green Thumb
Welcome to the Bell Family Farm. Tucked away in Unionville, MI, our 4-acre homestead is more than just a piece of property—it is a living, breathing ecosystem and a cherished family legacy.
Our Centennial Heritage
The story of the soil beneath our boots dates back to 1919. As a recognized Centennial Farm, we are deeply honored to carry on the agricultural traditions started by my family over a hundred years ago. Every fence post we bury and every seed we plant is a tribute to my parents, David and Phyllis Bell, and the generations who have nurtured this land. We are incredibly proud of our historic roots, having receieved Michigan Centennial Farm of the Year recognition in 2024 and a pending nomination in 2026 to add the Bell Family Homestead to the National Registry of Historic Places.
A Botanical and Wildlife Sanctuary
We don't just farm this land; we steward it. Our practices are rooted in organic, regenerative agriculture to ensure the soil remains healthy for the next century. We are currently working toward MAEAP (Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program) verification to formalize our commitment to the environment.
Over the years, we have intentionally transformed our homestead into a true sanctuary for local flora and fauna. We are incredibly proud to hold Level 1 ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation for our trees and to be a part of the United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary Network. Because we believe in supporting the smallest and most vital workers in our ecosystem, the farm is also a certified Monarch Waystation, a NABA Certified Butterfly Garden, an NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat, and a member of Pollinator Partnership's Bee Friendly Gardens.
The Animals of Bell Family Farm
A farm isn't truly a farm without the beautiful chaos of animals. We are passionate advocates for the human-animal bond, and the healing therapy our animals provide is a cornerstone of our daily lives.
Our pastures and barns are home to goats, chickens, Guineas, ducks, geese, peacocks, and our barn cats. You’ll also quickly hear—and fall in love with—Jack, our very vocal and personality-filled donkey. Supervising the entire operation is our dedicated dog crew: Buddy, our loyal Golden Retriever; Lulu, our spirited wire terrier mix; and Daisy Mae, our beautiful, light golden Great Pyrenees and English Shepherd mix.
Community and Connection
The Bell Family Farm is also a place for community connection. At the edge of the property, you'll find the Bell Farm Book Barn, our Little Free Library, where neighbors can share the joy of reading. The farm also serves as the spiritual home for the Bell Family Memorial Scholarship for Farm Girls, an initiative close to my heart, established in loving memory of my favorite farm girl and sister, Shelly Ann (Bell) Schnettler.
Whether we are tending to the botanical sanctuary, spending time with the animals, or preserving the history of Michigan's Thumb, the Bell Family Farm is our piece of heaven on earth. We are so glad to share a glimpse of it with you.