HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Larry and Karen Teusink announced they’ll close the public side of Teusink’s Pony Farm.
The family shared the news in a Facebook post shared hundreds of times, which in turn drew hundreds of responses, after 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2020,.
“The Teusink Family has made the difficult decision to close our farm to the public. As a centennial farm, we have worked for five generations serving our community. Our Grandfather was a dairy farmer and our father began the recreational pony farm business,” they wrote in the Facebook post. “The next three generations have been privileged to continue giving pony rides, sleigh rides, surrey rides, and hay rides to school groups, church, company and family gatherings, and the general public for the past 65 years.”
They said their thoughts of retirement were speeded up by the COVID-19 pandemic and the limits on gatherings and school visits imposed.
“Difficult choices had to be made, and we have chosen to close all public operations of the farm. We are thankful that we have been able to share the love of our farm with the public for so many years,” they wrote. “The smiles and laughter of kids petting a bunny, riding a pony, or feeding the sheep and goats has brought joy to our family. We have been truly blessed to serve you. We thank you for your support over the many years and hope that you too will cherish your memories of Teusink’s Pony Farm.”
The reactions contained a mix of happy memories, and good wishes for the Teusinks.
As Vicky Schott wrote, “Thank you, Teusink’s! We have great memories of pony rides, barn mazes and a particular hay ride with new kittens. Our family is sad to read the legacy is ending, but wish to congratulate you on retirement.”
