Erie County Legislator Chris Greene recently presented the owners of Kelkenberg Farm of Clarence, Charlene and Pat Spoth, with a proclamation to celebrate National Agriculture Day. The day is meant to salute the contributions of America’s farmers, growers, ranchers, producers and agribusinesses. Charlene Spoth is the daughter of Charles and Faith Kelkenberg.

In 1966, Charles and Faith purchased the Meisner Farm on Wolcott Road in Clarence Center where they raised beef cows, pigs, sheep, chickens and had a riding horse. In 1976, the pair purchased their first Belgian Draft Horse and in 1977 they added another so they would have a working team. Soon thereafter, the Kelkenberg’s hobby turned into a full-fledged business.

For more than 30 years, the Kelkenberg Farm has operated as a livestock and horse farm and teaches the public about our American Agriculture Industry.

Legislator Greene said, “It is so important to celebrate pioneers like Charles and Faith Kelkenberg—they think big, take risks and work hard. Charlene and Pat Spoth are carrying out an important family business. Thank you to Charlene and Pat who work tirelessly to make their family owned and operated farm a success for years to come!”