Our Roots

History

In 1916, Charlie Rutland started a small 36-acre farmstead; nearly a century has passed and, five generations later, Rutland Farms remains family owned and operated. Today Rutland Farms has evolved into a diverse farming operation and a welcoming agri-tourism attraction.

Strawberry Shed

Located in the heart of South Georgia, just a mile and a half from I-75, Rutland Farms began offering a primitive You-Pick strawberry patch in 1998 to provide the local community with fresh fruit they could harvest themselves. In the winter of 2000, the original “Strawberry House” was constructed to house a new product line of jellies, world famous homemade ice cream and a more diverse produce selection.

The simple shed served as a welcome station to visitors for several years and as a landmark for travelers seeking a taste of country life

In the spring of 2011, construction for a new 4000 square foot facility, The Market at Rutland Farms, broke ground. Ryan Rutland’s dream has become a reality. What began as a business plan Rutland (BSA – Agribusiness, ‘08) developed as a student at the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has quickly transformed into a successful and popular south Georgia agritourism destination.

Now, locals and visitors alike can enjoy visiting the farm and purchasing a variety of fresh vegetables, bakery items, fruits, nuts, and other locally produced specialties, including our jams and ice cream. In addition to the items grown on our farm, we partner with other like-minded growers and artisans in our area to provide a wonderful variety of seasonal produce and specialty items. And, our online store offers folks a chance to order non-perishables year-round!

Rutland Farmily

Now Ryan and his wife Meredith work side by side as they take The Market at Rutland Farms to new levels each year. They hope to continue to grow for generations to come.

Rutland Farms