Welcome to Detour Farm!

or centuries before European settlers arrived in the Walla Walla Valley, The Land – approximately 160 acres – served as hunting and fishing ground for the Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians that lived in the area. After the Indian Wars of the 1850’s, The Land was acquired by the US government and deeded to a couple named Dauney who farmed it – probably raising crops for their own consumption and fishing and hunting along the Walla Walla River that serves as the northern property boundary.

Thereafter, The Land – covered in native cottonwoods, locust, willows, sagebrush and bunchgrasses – was cleared and converted into cattle pasture. We acquired the land in the spring of 2004 and have begun the slow process of returning the property to its natural condition and a haven for local wildlife.

We have carved out a couple of acres just above the river for our new house, barn, a small visitor’s cottage, and pasture for Annie’s animals. Annie plans to shear her alpacas, spin their soft fiber into yarn and make blankets. I am planning to sit on the porch and write several more books. We’ve taken a few pictures to give you a feel for our new lives. Hope you enjoy them…

Best,
SAM