The Fulper Family Farmstead story begins back in 1909 when Mary Fulper moved to Lambertville, New Jersey with a cow and began growing produce alongside her family. Over a century later, the farm specializes in dairy products.
And it’s proudly still a family-run venture.
“It’s rewarding being able to build upon the legacy our family has left for us in previous generations,” says Mikayla Fulper, who helps run the farm today. “We also are lucky to be able to see so many family members on a day-to-day basis. I myself get to see my father, brother, uncle and grandpa every day. Not many of my peers can say that.”
We spoke to Mikayla Fulper about why Fulper Family Farmstead uses Holsteins and how they’re donating free dairy to help during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also got into the relationship between cows and farm cats.
Learn more about Holstein cows!
Saluting the Holstein
Fulper Family Farmstead relies on Holstein cows to produce their dairy.
“Holsteins are the highest-producing breed, so that is why they are the staple here,” says Fulper. “We never really ventured into other breeds because we understand the Holstein thoroughly. We don’t want to change something if it ain’t broke!”
A Level-Headed Sort of Cow
When it comes to the personality of their Holsteins, Fulper calls them “quite level-headed” and says that they’re “not as stubborn as some other breeds are known to be.”
Fulper adds that each cow has its own personality.
“I have some that follow me around like a puppy and want to be pet and to eat my hair and clothes, while others are content to mind their own business and keep their distance.”
Cows Versus Cats!
The Fulper Family Farmstead includes a clowder of resident farm felines who are happy to prowl around the cows.
“The first time they see a cat is comical!” Fulper says. “A large animal on edge because a sweet 10-pound cat is sauntering in front of them is cute. They eventually get used to them and pay them no mind. And it’s the same thing with the farm dogs.”
Championing Ricotta & Mozzarella
Fulper Family Farmstead’s most popular cheese is their ricotta.
“Our cheese maker has won awards for his recipe in the past. And the family is Sicilian, so that is why it’s loved so much,” explains Fulper.
She adds that her own personal cheese of choice is the hand-wrapped mozzarella—which she uses to make bruschetta or a caprese salad during the summer months.
Try this easy goat-cheese mozzarella recipe for a creamy treat!
Helping During the Pandemic
With food shortages on the rise during the current COVID-19 pandemic, Fulper Family Farmstead has been helping out by giving away dairy to people in need.
“Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, we learned about local community organizations running low on food for their patrons and wanted to do something about it, explains Fulper.
She adds that to date the farm has donated around 1,400 pounds of dairy products in a partnership with the Rolling Harvest Food Rescue organization.
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