Near Rotterdam Junction in Schenectady County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Fields and Gardens
Photographed by Steve Stoessel, June 19, 2025
1. Fields and Gardens Marker
For 300 years, life here has centered on making a living from the land. In its early days, Mabee Farm was self-sufficient, with all able-bodied members of the family working to keep it running. Traditional crops were varied, but always included some type of grain, most often wheat. Many early colonists adopted farming techniques from local Mohawk who had been farming this region's land for centuries. Known as the "three sisters," small hills of soil were planted with corn, beans, and squash, forming a symbiotic relationship and helping each other grow.
As technology advanced, this farm became home to larger scale operations. By the 1800s, the Mabees were specializing in cash crops which were sold directly for profit.
We carry on the Mabees' legacy by continuing to farm the fields. We grow many of the same crops that they did: rye, corn, pumpkins, potatoes, peas, and more! We teach others how to farm the traditional way and our yield is used in programming and events, or given to local businesses to turn into delicious product.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists:
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Location. 42° 51.893′ N, 74° 1.871′ W. Marker is near Rotterdam Junction, New York, in Schenectady County. It can be reached from Main Street (New York State Route 5S) 0.4 miles south of Parkis Street, on the right when traveling north. Marker is about 126 yards from parking lot. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1100 Main Street, Rotterdam Junction NY 12150, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Upstate New York, in the Capital District, and in the Albany Metropolitan Area. It is also in the American Northeast and in the Mid-Atlantic. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland and also one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Workshops (a few steps from this marker); Nilsen Dutch Barn (within shouting distance of this marker); Jan Mabie House (about 300 feet away, measured in
Photographed by Steve Stoessel, June 19, 2025
2. Fields and Gardens Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on June 20, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 20, 2025, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York. This page has been viewed 371 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 20, 2025, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York.
