In today’s column, one of my neighbors and former student, Mr. Barry Loch will share some of his early memories of the Willow Brook Farm and golf course.

Barry was 13 years old, and he resided a short distance from the farm and golf course. One day he walked to the farm and course, and this was the first time he was ever on a golf course. As he walked through the farm, a boy his age was driving a go-cart. The boy stopped and asked Barry if he wanted a ride. Barry did not hesitate to say yes. To his surprise, the boy was Peter Fuller, the son of the owner.

As a result of the chance meeting, Barry would later visit the farm and course on many occasions. He would ride horses, swim in the pool and enjoy the cattle and farm operation. He would meet Peter’s sister Holly who made him feel welcome.

One day, when Barry was walking off the golf course, Mrs. Miller, the manager of the course, offered him a job. He recalled his first job was to clean golf balls. Mrs. Miller was strict, and the golf balls needed to be crystal clean. She and her staff always maintained the course in excellent playing condition.

Many of the first golfers Barry saw were businessmen and officials from the Fuller Company. Barry also remembered Aaron Newhard, owner of Newhard’s Pharmacy in Northampton. Newhard was a frequent golfer at the course.

Barry also admired the automobiles of the different golfers.

When the golf course closed several years ago, some of the golf memorabilia was displayed in the Fuller home. Many of the items were for sale.

Mr. Loch introduced himself and spoke with the managers of the sale. He talked about his experiences on the farm and golf course as a young boy. As a result, he was given a piece of memorabilia from the farm Rodeo Room.

When Mr. Loch drives past the former farm and golf course, the site evokes memories of his days on the farm and the eternal green of the golf landscape — a memory that a young boy will never forget.

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In two weeks, photos from the farm and golf course. See you then!