Chenery Farm Workers

August 11, 1988

By Isabel Morse Maresh

The Chenery Farm, also called "The Pastures," of Belmont was owned by Horace Chenery. At the turn of the century, he had one of the best Jersey cow herds in the State of Maine. He was also a dog fancier, and had one of the best dog kennels in New England and raised game dogs. He had stables of houses and raised pigs.

Chenery was a liberal entertainer in the summer months, contributing to the Mystic Grange fiars, and entertaining many distinguished guests at his cabin cottage at Tilden Pond. Morrill Sunday School picnics were held at the pond.

The waterworks at the farm included a 10,000-gallon tank, which though in decay, is still visible against the skyline on the Back Belmont Road.

IN the summer months, the two-story dairy barn, the cement foundation of which is still on the farm, was swept clean and barn dances were held. Among those who played at the dances was Charles Overlock of Washington, Maine.

In later years, Harold Marriner, cattle dealer, and butcher owned the farm. The farm was later sold and broken up into smaller farm lots. Up to 30 men were employed at one time by Mr. Chenery perhaps the largest employer ever in the small town of Belmont.