
Grass-Fed Beef Directory
Find grass-fed beef from local ranches

ABOUT OUR RANCH
Appleton Farms is a historic 1,000-acre working farm in Hamilton and Ipswich, Massachusetts, and one of the oldest continuously operating farms in the United States. Established in 1638, the farm has been stewarded for centuries with a focus on preserving agricultural land, producing local food, and connecting the community to farming through hands-on experiences.
Today, Appleton Farms uses regenerative and agroecological farming practices to produce certified organic vegetables, grass-fed meats, eggs, and other seasonal products while promoting healthy soils, biodiversity, and long-term environmental stewardship. Visitors can purchase farm-fresh foods at the year-round farm store, participate in the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, and enjoy products grown and raised on the farm.
Beyond food production, Appleton Farms offers a wide range of educational and recreational opportunities for all ages. Throughout the year, guests can attend culinary classes, farm dinners, children's programs, summer camp, guided walks, family farm activities, concerts, and seasonal events that provide an authentic connection to New England agriculture. The property's rolling pastures, woodlands, wetlands, and historic stone walls also support diverse wildlife and offer scenic trails for walking and exploring.
Managed by The Trustees, Appleton Farms continues to preserve one of New England's most significant agricultural landscapes while demonstrating how sustainable farming, conservation, education, and community engagement can work together to protect farmland for future generations.


Contact Information
219 County Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938
(978) 356-5728
About
Appleton Farms is a historic 1,000-acre working farm in Hamilton and Ipswich, Massachusetts, operating continuously since 1638. The farm produces certified organic vegetables, grass-fed livestock, and other locally grown foods using regenerative farming practices while offering a year-round farm store, CSA program, educational programs, seasonal events, and family-friendly farm experiences.
Learn More Before You Buy
New to buying local, grass-fed beef? These quick guides explain how the process works, what to expect, and how to make the most of your purchase.
📦 Buying Grass-Fed Beef in Bulk — Explore quantity options and see what you’ll receive with a whole, half, or quarter cow.
🐄 Buying Grass-Fed Beef from a Ranch — Understand how the process works, from deposits to delivery.
🥩 Buying a Whole Cow — See total yield, cut options, average cost per pound, and freezer space required.
🥩 Buying a Half Cow — Understand how much beef you’ll receive, typical pricing, and storage needs.
🥩 Buying a Quarter Cow — Compare portion sizes, cost expectations, and whether a quarter share fits your household.
🧮 Beef Order Calculator — Estimate cost, packaged weight, and freezer space before you buy.












