The cows are moo-ving back in at Hopkins Farm Creamery, much to the delight of patrons.
The popular ice cream stand, located outside Lewes on Route 9, announced Thursday on Facebook the arrival of three cows, as well as the addition of bathrooms and picnic tables.
The Hopkins family ran a dairy farm for decades, and when they opened the creamery in 2008, one of the highlights for customers was looking in on the gentle giants next door. Believe it or not, many fondly associate the ice cream with the smell of cow manure.
But times change.
The current generation of Hopkins sold off the cows over the last few years and turned to agrotourism − including event venues, a bed-and-breakfast and a produce stand − to sustain the farm. Though the locals appreciated the farmland preservation, their heartbreak over the cows was apparent on social media.
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On Thursday, however, Hopkins Farm Creamery announced the return of bovines to the creamery, prompting many elated comments.
“I am so happy to hear this. Me and my family have been coming ever since the ice cream stand opened. I truly missed the cows and calves. Thank you so much for this treat again. Happy to hear all the additional expansions,” wrote Anna Seng Sewy.
Thursday was also the day Hopkins Farm Creamery opened for the season. The ice cream stand is open from noon to 8 p.m. daily until Memorial Day weekend, when hours will expand.
Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on Sussex County and beyond. Reach her at smcnaught@gannett.com or on Twitter @MarvelMcNaught
