Bluffton's Silver Fox Farm

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Did you know that Bluffton once had a Silver Fox Farm? It was located at the site of Mennonite Memorial Home at the bend on Elm Street. Here's a photo of some employees and perhaps shareholders.

In the center of the front row is Albert (Bert) Oyer who was the company caretaker. The fox farm, called a fox "ranch" organized in 1927. By 1937 the companyy was estimated in marketing fox pelts valued at $7,500. That year the farm had 225 foxes, which were harvested for fashion clothing.

The demand for fox fur peaked and by 1939 the company closed its doors. The Icon welcome any viewers who might identify other persons in this photo. (Photo from the collection of Diane Huber)

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