Westmeister Farm celebrates first anniversary
One of Richland County’s most popular attractions that is right here in Shelby, Westmeister Farm, celebrated their one-year anniversary with all their furry friends in attendance on Friday afternoon.
Westmeister Farm is a private animal encounter facility. There are multiple animals on site including two Asian otters, a two-toed sloth, kangaroos, a zebra, a tortoise, pigs, highland cows, goats, porcupines, a skunk and more. Reservations are currently being accepted for 2025. Tours are offered by appointment only, there are no walk-ins.
The owners of Westmeister Farm are Shawn and Lynn Westmeister.
Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development Member Services Manager Jennifer Wagner welcomed all the guests who were in attendance which included Richland County Commissioners Cliff Mears and Tony Vero, Shelby Mayor Steven Schag, and Economic Development Manager for Shelby and Northern Richland County Jessica Gribben.
Many of the Westmeister’s friends and volunteers of the farm were in attendance at the celebration as well.
“They have been here for a year but for a lot of us this is a new discovery. How exciting is this and what a fantastic and special place this is. We wish you a big congratulations and many more years to come of family fun and enjoyment. Thank you so much,” Wagner said.
Schag shared his thoughts on this one-of-a-kind farm.
“What an experience of what is all together here; a farm, and families and fun. We have those three dynamics going on and it is so cool that is right here on the outskirts of Shelby.
Mindy Newspapers
Mckenzie/sdg
Again, we are thankful you are here, and we wish you all the best. This is just fantastic,” Schag said.
Both Mears and Vero went over how they felt about the unique animals being right here in Ohio.
“This is Ohio, this is amazing. This is really a draw to the community. People will come and then they will want to know where they can stay and where they can eat. It’s a jewel for Richland County, so thank you for what you have done and for your investment,” Mears said.
“There aren’t many places that you can go where you can hold a skunk, this is a phenomenal place. The animals are all great, the otters, the skunk, the tortoise. We thank you,” Vero said.
Lynn explained how Westmeister Farm came to be what it is today.
“The farm was just our home, and it still is. It’s relaxing to come home and interact with the animals and take care of them. They are always excited to see us, and they are so affectionate and loving because of the time and effort and love that we have put into them,” Lynn stated.
Both Shawn and Lynn expressed their gratitude to all who have helped support Westmeister Farm to make it a success.
Westmeister Farm is located at 4097 Plymouth Springmill Rd., Shelby. In order to book a visit, go to Westmeister. com and also check out their Facebook page at Westmeister.
Mckenzie/sdg