#EscapeWithNCAg is a year-long series that will focus on agritourism across North Carolina. Many farms, wineries and other agricultural businesses in our state offer events such as tours, yoga, educational classes, pick-your-own events and festivals, to entertain the public and teach them about our state’s number one industry. Each Thursday, we will feature a new site for you to visit with friends or family. Stay tuned and learn how to escape the stresses of life by diving into agriculture!
A world of adventure, cuddles and learning awaits you and your family in the heart of Franklinton. Whether you enjoy a fun and educational tour, read books alongside your kids or join in on a crafting class, Two Dachshund Farms is a great way to experience the farm in a unique and exciting way.
Growing up on a small family farm, Anne Akers always had the spirit of a farm girl. “I grew up farming with my family and always loved being around the animals,” she said. “Even though my husband doesn’t have a farming background, he started developing a deep interest in fiber arts early in our dating relationship. That’s where the vision of Two Dachshund Farms started to become a reality.” In February of 2022, Two Dachshund Farms opened it’s doors to the public by offering educational tours and visits with the animals.
The farm is currently home to alpacas, Angora goats, sheep, donkeys, chickens, guineas, horses, and a llama. Anne and her husband are also adding a lavender plot to the farm later this year, presenting another opportunity for the public to visit. Not only can you take a farm tour year-round, allowing you and your family to pet, feed and learn about the animals, but the farm also hosts a variety of classes throughout the year for interested individuals to learn how to utilize products on the farm, including Ukrainian egg decoration and crochet. In fact, they are currently finishing up a four week crochet class series where participants took wool spun on the farm and learned how to make a headband! “We have done a variety of classes on the farm, including a beginners course to crochet,” Anne said. “This is the first class that was more like a series where people not only learned how to crochet but actually walked away with a finished product.” Anne and her team are currently working on the event calendar for the remainder of the year, so keep an eye on their Facebook page for classes that spark your interest!
Classes at the farm are typically offered on a monthly basis and prices range based on subject matter and materials needed. Registration is required and can be booked through their Facebook page or website. Farm tours are also available throughout the year and cost $6 per person to attend. Reservations are required for farm tours and can be made simply through the Facebook page or website.
Be sure to visit the farm store on-site at the conclusion of your visit! Not only will you find a variety of products from Two Dachshund Farm, including wool and many crocheted products, but also a plethora of products from other local companies, like candles, earrings, pottery, farm photos, toys, books and more! The store is currently open Thursday through Sunday, but arrangements can be made for visitors when asked in advance.
If you’re looking for a little bit more time on the farm, Two Dachshund Farm is a member of the Harvest Host Program, which allows members to travel and stay on their farm for a night. Members of the program must have an RV that can travel to and from the venue. “We have met some of the most amazing people by allowing them to park their RV on our farm and stay the night,” Anne said. “It really has been amazing to see people come and learn about our farm and walk away with new knowledge about N.C. agriculture.” Visit the Harvest Host Farm website if you are interested in more information, including how to get involved.
Finally, Two Dachshund Farm is currently working toward their goal of offering reading with the farm animals. “I am all about education, reading and literacy in particular,” Anne said. “I want to offer a place in this community where kids can come and learn about agriculture through the world of books.” Through working with local authors, Anne hopes to develop a program that allows visitors to book walk the farm, possibly with an animal, or attend story telling on the farm in a pasture with the animals. Keep an eye on Two Dachshund Farm’s social media pages for more information and be sure to visit when this dream comes true for Anne and her family!
By visiting the farm, kids and adults alike can learn about the value of farm animals, how to be good stewards of the land and the art of fiber. “Animals on farms across our state are used in a variety of ways that benefit agriculture, including food and fiber,” Anne said. “When people step foot on our farm, they learn how much we love our animals and treat them like family. They see how a farm that doesn’t use their animals for meat, still provides a quality product that benefits the customer and gives the animals a purpose and potential.” Through events and tours, visitors will learn where the fiber comes from, how the animals are sheered either once or twice a year depending on breed, and how different products are made with that fiber. “We love having people on the farm because we want them to learn about farming and have a good experience with agriculture,” Anne said. “I want them to walk away loving these animals and this lifestyle as much as I do.” Be sure to keep an eye on their Facebook page for the latest class updates and event information and start planning a trip to visit Two Dachshund Farms today!
