By Carrie Malangone
Resident Correspondent
Golden Acres Farms is proudly celebrating 75 years of growth, tradition, and community. The story begins in 1910, when Giacomo Simone immigrated to the United States and worked in construction before returning to his homeland to serve in World War I.
In 1920, he returned to the U.S. with his bride and made New Haven, Connecticut, their home. In 1935, Simone purchased 11.5 acres on what is now Valley Street in New Haven. His eldest son, Saverio “Solly” Simone, became the farm’s manager at just 16 years old. Nicknamed the “Wax Bean King,” Solly, along with his siblings, helped cultivate a thriving farm known for its beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and celery.
In 1941, due to urban development and the rise of big business, the Simone family was forced to sell their New Haven farm. They soon relocated to the Allingtown section of West Haven, where Mr. Simone purchased 20 acres. By 1949, Solly and his wife Madeleine began building a home on 8 of those acres, and in 1950, Golden Acres Farms was officially born—starting with one greenhouse and a garden full of dreams.
Today, 75 years later, third-generation owners Deb and Michele Simone carry on the family legacy. Golden Acres Farms proudly marks its Diamond Jubilee with the support of State Reps. Trenee Magee, Bill Heffernan, and MJ Shannon, along with Michelle Caprio and DT Tammaro of the West Haven Business Alliance.
Local businesses including Westies Nutrition and Our Daily Bakes are also joining in the celebration. Golden Acres Farms is a cherished part of the community, providing many of the beautiful, pesticide-free flowers seen throughout the city.
Located at 201 Fresh Meadow Road in the Allingtown neighborhood of West Haven, the farm is open to the public daily from April 1 through June 30, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The family hopes residents will come celebrate 75 years of heritage and support a local, women-owned business that continues to make West Haven bloom.
Stop by, share in the joy, and beautify your space with fresh flowers and vegetables—grown with love and tradition
Golden Acres is one of my favorite places in West Haven! Congratulations to Deb and Michelle, here’s to another 75 years!