Atlantic Farms In Wall Shuts Down For Good After 32 Years

WALL, NJ — Longtime family business Atlantic Farms in Wall Township has shut down permanently, after 32 years of operations, its owners announced.

John Tobia announced the closure of the business on its Facebook page Wednesday, saying the decision to close was the result of "business and personal circumstances."

"It has been an extremely difficult decision to close our doors and fields to all of you. Our rescued farm animals are dear to our hearts as they are to you and we have found new homes on private farms and other petting farms for all of them," Tobia wrote. "The care and welfare of our animals is extremely important to us and their new homes were carefully selected."

An auction is scheduled for April 25 to sell off items used to tend the 300-acre farm, including tractors, trucks, and equipment, as well as antiques and other items. Additional information will be shared in coming weeks, Tobia wrote.

Atlantic Farms had roots in the community dating back to the late 19th and early 20th century and was an integral part of the community.

"Even our very own and beloved dairy cows, Annie and Daisy became the official mascots!" he wrote.

We will forever cherish the memories and traditions we created and shared with all of you. It has been so rewarding and an incredible experience providing entertainment, education and enjoyment for you and your families.

Fans of the farm shared their shock and sadness, along with fond memories of their visits to the farm on Atlantic Avenue.

"I grew up in Wall, Tiltons Corner was my backyard," France Dulow wrote on Tobia's post announcing the closure. "Atlantic Farms was a part of my childhood, and even though I moved to Holmdel, I made it a part of my kids’ childhood too. Pumpkin picking, the hay ride, feeding the goats... and of course Annie. Priceless memories."

"So sorry to hear this, but I thank you for all of the wonderful times my family and my students have enjoyed there," Holly Heron wrote. "Please know that you ran a wonderful business and made a lovely impact to MANY."

"Thank you John and family for happy memories," Fred Carl wrote. "Thank you for lending wagons to InfoAge to use as as a VIP speakers platform at ceremonies and so we could have a float in the St. Patty’s Belmar parade. Best wishes in future endeavors."

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On Thursday, in a follow-up, Tobia thanked the community for the outpouring of support.

"We are overwhelmed by all of your messages, photos and videos. We are so humbled, fortunate and grateful for all of you and the memories and traditions you created at our farm," he wrote. "We wanted to say one big THANK YOU to each and every one of you. Please note this was by no means an easy decision, but we hope you continue to remember all the great times you shared and to continue making memories and traditions throughout life with your family and friends."

Tobia said the family welcomes additional photos and videos. They can be shared on the farm's Facebook page or can be emailed to atlanticfarmsnj@gmail.com.

"We will put together an album of all the memories we all shared throughout the years," Tobia wrote.

Again, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Please continue to share your stories and memories.

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