Our Story

Chris Hall grew up in Putnam county, where he began his career as builder and 1st class welder. While growing his business, Stronghold Industries (est. 2000). Chris and Julie purchased 28 acres in Dutchess county and immediately began converting their new property into a small homestead.  It has always been their  dream to have a farm and grow specialty products.  Chris and Julie became more interested in homesteading for their family’s physical health and their children’s understanding of nature.  Julie is CIA trained high class chef, with a focus in pastries. Her skill set in conjunction with what our farm will produce will create the highest end, natural products for our Market.   Chris and Julie have three children, Molly, Jack and Emma.   

As a young child, Rudy Mercado grew up in NYC, but at age 9 moved into Putnam county, where he and Chris met and have been close friends ever since. The moment life started in Putnam, Rudy found a passion for freshwater fishing and a rural life.  Rudy attended college further upstate NY, and met Jillian.   Soon after getting married they found themselves back in Manhattan, where he started his career as a resident building manager, managing high occupancy, luxury condominiums and rentals.  This career has been fulfilling while providing financial stability, however for both Jill and Rudy, something had always been missing.  Now raising 3 children, Harry, Helena and Finn, it has become clear that a rural life, close to nature is more important than the city life.  In the last few years, Rudy has been growing various vegetables and fruits using hydroponic methods,  in addition to aquaponics (tilapia) and microgreens in their home in Manhattan.