Cooperatively Yours: Snead’s Farm

By: Kirstin Spanu

Tucked just off Route 17 in southern Fredericksburg, Snead’s Asparagus Farm might appear like an unassuming roadside stop at first glance. A small farm stand brimming with fresh seasonal produce—sweet corn, juicy watermelon, and fragrant peaches—welcomes visitors. But venture beyond the stand, past the grassy parking area and heirloom cantaloupe cart, and you’ll discover the true magic and whimsy that makes Snead’s Farm a favorite destination for families and adventurers alike.

The first glimpse of this charm is a picnic table nestled under a grapevine trellis, the perfect spot to enjoy a farm-fresh peach. Across from the table lies Whispering Pines, a mini forest filled with colorful sculptures, a teepee, and a play area, creating an enchanting space for children.

As you continue down the driveway, you’ll spot an antique fire truck with a proud American flag fluttering in the breeze. Just a bit further, a decommissioned U.S. Army helicopter sits in the field, often sparking curiosity from visitors. “There’s a myth and a truth,” chuckles Emmett Snead, the farm’s lively owner. He leans in to share the legend: “The myth is that my wife flew it all the way from Vietnam, island-hopping through the Pacific until it landed here in Virginia.” With a sly grin, he reveals the truth: “She actually spotted it in someone’s yard in North Carolina and waited years to buy it.”

Emmett Snead’s passion for farming shines through in every interaction. A natural storyteller with a quick wit, Snead’s charm makes farm visits feel like catching up with an old friend. Growing up on a dairy farm, Snead learned the value of hard work and community early on. “My grandfather had a one-acre farm, and my father had a one-acre farm,” he recalls. “Saturdays, I’d load up my bike with fruits and vegetables and sell them door-to-door. That was fun.”

Today, Snead’s Asparagus Farm is much more than a vegetable farm—it’s a hub of community and seasonal fun. In fall, families flock here for hayrides and corn mazes. Winter brings the scent of fresh-cut Christmas trees. Throughout the year, the farm’s animals—goats, chickens, and horses—are a delight for visitors young and old. And when school’s in session, local children and teachers use the farm’s classroom to learn about agriculture firsthand.

Snead’s commitment to the land runs deep. He takes pride in his sustainable farming practices, selling his produce to neighbors and local businesses like the Fredericksburg Food Co-op. “I agree with the Co-op’s values,” he says, “but the one that resonates most with me is ‘Environmental Responsibility.’ I’ve always been ahead of my time when it comes to protecting the soil and water.” For Snead, farming is a multi-generational responsibility. “This land is more than just a farm—it’s a legacy.”

The next time you’re near Route 17, take a detour to Snead’s Asparagus Farm, where the charm of this local gem will leave you inspired. And if you can’t make it in person, you can still enjoy the bounty of Snead’s hard work by picking up his seasonal produce right here at Fredericksburg Food Co-op. Discover the magic of local, sustainable farming—one bite at a time.

**This article is dedicated to the memory of Ed King (1953-2024), a beloved local artist who often found inspiration at Snead’s Farm. One of his cherished works, a painting of two goats reminiscent of “American Gothic,” still stands in the farm’s perennial garden, a testament to his creative spirit and enduring connection to this special place.

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  Snead's Farm sells fruits and vegetables in Fredericksburg, Va.

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  A play area in Whispering Pines within Snead's Asparagus Farm in Fredericksburg, Va.

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  A painting depicting goats reminiscent of American Gothic is located at Snead's Farm in Fredericksburg, Va. The artwork was painted by local Fredericksburg artist, Ed King (1953-2024).

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  A sculpture spells out "LOVE" at Snead's Asparagus Farm in Fredericksburg, Va.

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  Grapes ripen on the vine at Snead's Farm in Fredericksburg, Va.

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  A retired U.S. Army helicopter is now a tourist attraction at Snead's Farm in Fredericksburg, Va.