Our Story
Mr. Ed's Farm LLC
Our Mission
"Providing authentic, hands-on farm experiences that educate, inspire, and create lasting memories for families and children."
Our Story
Mr. Ed's Farm LLC is a partnership between Ed Nelson and Gayle Goff, shaped by decades of shared work, deep Minnesota roots, and a love of rural life.
Ed and Gayle met in 1972, married in 1976 and bought the original 80 acre farm east of Hibbing in the spring of 1985. They have since added an additional 80 acres and have transformed the farm into a working livestock and produce operation.
Mrs. Ed
Because Gayle chose to keep her maiden name, people were often curious about the farm name and the partnership behind it. Explaining last names and formalities became complicated, so it was much easier — and much more fun — to simply say:
"Gayle is Mrs. Ed."
And just like that, a nickname — and a tradition — was born.
Today, Mrs. Ed is more than a name — it represents the heart of the farm. One of Gayle's greatest strengths is her warm, approachable way with guests and customers. From school tours to family visits, she helps everyone feel comfortable and welcome.
For visiting school children, the farm offers more than animals and gardens. They see firsthand that men and women share the duties and responsibilities of farm life — working side by side, solving problems together, and supporting one another.
Ed and Gayle strive to be positive role models, showing young visitors that farming is built on cooperation, respect, and teamwork, and that everyone has an important role to play.
How the Farm Got Its Name
The name Mr. Ed's Farm came from an unexpected and meaningful moment.
In 1987, Ed and Gayle received a watercolor painting from an eight-year-old girl. The painting showed a farm scene — barn, animals, and open land — and on the barn roof, written in careful childhood handwriting, was the title:
"Mr. Ed's Farm"
The name stayed.
The original watercolor painting from 1987
Growing Through Change
Like many small farms, Mr. Ed's Farm faced major challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. With visitors unable to come to the farm, agritourism came to a sudden halt.
Rather than standing still, Ed and Gayle returned to the soil.
They expanded their gardens and began growing produce and eggs for local families, selling at the Hibbing Farmers Market. What started as a necessity became an important new chapter for the farm.
Today, the gardens include two greenhouses, a 100-foot high tunnel, and extensive outdoor growing areas. Mr. Ed and Mrs. Ed share the work of planning, planting, and cultivating throughout the growing season.
Gayle coordinates the harvesting, preparation, and weekly market sales, where her friendly manner and genuine love of visiting with people have become a hallmark of the farm. Many customers know her simply as Mrs. Ed.
Our Philosophy
Authenticity Over Commerce
We're not a petting zoo or a theme park. We're a real working farm where animals are cared for daily, where chores need doing, and where life follows the rhythms of the seasons. Our visitors experience genuine farm life, not a sanitized version of it.
Hands-On, Experiential Learning
We believe the best learning happens through doing. Whether it's feeding animals, collecting eggs, or understanding how different animals behave, our visitors don't just observe - they participate. These hands-on experiences create deeper understanding and lasting memories.
Creating Connections Across Generations
Farm experiences have a unique way of bringing families together. Grandparents share stories of their own farm memories, parents discover new things alongside their children, and kids learn lessons that can't be taught in a classroom. We create space for these meaningful connections to happen naturally.
Education Through Experience
Drawing on Ed's background in educational programming, every farm visit is designed to teach as well as entertain. We adapt our approach to different age groups and learning styles, ensuring that whether you're 3 or 73, you'll leave having learned something new about animals, agriculture, and the natural world.
Photos from Visitors
Memories captured by our guests over the years
Views From the Farm
Explore our beautiful photo gallery showcasing daily life at Mr. Ed's Farm. From our friendly animals to scenic barns and seasonal activities, get a glimpse of what makes our farm special.
Photography by Luke Mason
View Photo Gallery
Come Experience the Farm
Whether you're looking for a winter sleigh ride, a farm tour, or an educational experience for your school group, we'd love to welcome you to Mr. Ed's Farm.