A Historic Legacy Reimagined
The farmhouse that has become synonymous with Larison’s Turkey Farm was originally built in 1800 by Isaac Corwin, who moved to Morris County, New Jersey, from Long Island during the time of the American Revolution. Corwin purchased the land from Benjamin Luse, and while Corwin likely didn’t come to New Jersey with turkeys in mind, he was drawn to the area for its growing mining industry in nearby Chester. Over the years, the farmhouse changed hands, eventually becoming the property of James Topping in 1829, an iron mine owner who expanded the home and turned it into a “stately” residence.
However, it wasn’t until 1945 that the farmhouse became a true local landmark when Willis Larison purchased the property and transformed it into the famous Larison’s Turkey Farm. Known for its turkey dinners and charming atmosphere, Larison’s became a beloved destination for Chester residents and visitors alike, drawing crowds for decades.
One of the defining features of the location is a majestic tulip tree, which is believed to be around 175 years old. This iconic tree, located near the historic farmhouse, has stood as a silent witness to the many changes over the years. Tulip trees were often planted in such locations due to their broad, dense canopy, providing ample shade and offering a welcoming spot for travelers and visitors to rest. Over the years, families waiting for their names to be called at the restaurant would often sit in Adirondack chairs beneath the tree’s expansive branches, enjoying the cool shade and the peaceful surroundings. The tulip tree has become a symbol of the farm’s rich history and a reminder of the timeless connection between the land and the community.
In 2025, Alstede Farms, a family farm with deep roots in the region, took on the task of revitalizing this historic property. With personal ties to the farm—Kurt and Mary Alstede, along with their daughters (now co-owners of the majority woman-owned farm), Rebekah and Sarah, have fond memories of dining at the turkey farm with their grandparents—the Alstede family is committed to breathing new life into the building while preserving its rich history. They plan to transform the farmhouse into a bustling country farm store, where community members can find fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal products.
This revitalization also includes reactivating the 14 acres of farmland behind the farmhouse, where crops such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers will be grown. These efforts will not only provide fresh food for the community but will also support pollinators, fostering a more biodiverse and sustainable local ecosystem. Alstede Farms has long been committed to sustainability and regenerative farming practices, ensuring that future generations will benefit from both the land and the local food system.
A key part of the revitalization includes reintroducing outdoor dining. Visitors will once again be able to enjoy the beautiful rural landscape of Chester while seated in Adirondack chairs, just as many did during the glory days of Larison’s Turkey Farm. This nostalgic touch will offer a sense of continuity while providing a fresh experience for new visitors.
The Alstede family’s vision for the revitalization of Larison’s Turkey Farm is about much more than restoring a building. It’s about preserving a beloved piece of Chester’s history, creating a gathering place where the community can once again come together to enjoy fresh food and connect with the area’s agricultural roots. The project is a testament to the Alstede family’s deep commitment to the sustainability of both the land and the community, blending the past with the future to ensure the farm continues to thrive for generations to come.
The iconic tulip tree will continue to stand at the heart of this revitalization, symbolizing the lasting connection between nature, community, and history. It’s a living testament to the farm’s legacy, offering shade to future generations while reminding everyone of the farm’s timeless place in the landscape of Chester.
Stay tuned for more updates as the restoration of Larison’s Turkey Farm continues, and join the Alstede family in celebrating this exciting new chapter in Chester’s rich agricultural history.
To Learn More about the plan, visit https://chesterborough.org/government/news/514-larison-update
