Photographic Alphabet: M is for Tess Mayer
"Roadside Memorial." A Roadside Memorial down the road from Del-Rose Farm in South Kortright, NY. © Tess Mayer
Project: Delaware County
This project addresses how farming continues in rural Delaware County, New York, despite a largely corporate food industry. My respect for farmers does not come from my own personal experience, but rather comes from witnessing my high school classmates and neighbors. Many of their families have been here for hundreds of years, but these young farmers are inheriting a very different atmosphere than that of their parents generation. With a growing interest in organic and local agriculture, more and more people have moved to Delaware County from New York City to start their own farms. This often creates two distinct groups: the locals and the transplants. The tension these two groups create is able to speak to a broader changing agricultural issue involving wealth, mobility, and access to resources within New York State.
"Flaca Vaca Farm (2010-2018)." Simon Martinez petting a few of his Red Poll Cattle while moving them to a different pasture. Simon Martinez and his partner Robert Bollinger ran Flaca Vaca Farm from 2010 until 2018. They moved from New York City to Stamford, NY, and now are off to Detroit. © Tess Mayer
"Issac." Issac's parents, Kate and Dan Marsiglio have been running Stony Creek Farm, a farm-stay in Walton, NY, since 2005. Their slogan "Let your family free-range," caters largely to urban families seeking a rural retreat. Guests are invited to help with farm chores and to pick their own produce. © Tess Mayer
"Bovina Farm Day." Bovina Farm Day is an annual event during Labor Day weekend celebrating the town's agricultural history. © Tess Mayer
"Dairy Princess." Miquela Hanselman's Delaware County Dairy Princess sash on the dining table of her home. Miquela is the youngest of seven children, three of whom currently work on their parent's farm, Del-Rose Farm © Tess Mayer
"Jason at 5am." In 2000 Holley White and Richard Giles moved from Texas to Hamden, NY to start Lucky Dog Farm. Here, Jason is loading the truck with organic produce to sell at the Union Square Greenmarket. © Tess Mayer
You can see more of Tess' work here.
