The Idylwilde Story
Farming is a family tradition for the Napoli brothers: Thomas, Richard, and David. Their grandparents, Frank and Mary Napoli, who immigrated from Italy in early 1898, raised vegetables, poultry, and eggs on forty acres in Lexington.Their son Thomas helped as they delivered their produce and eggs door to door by pushcart.
By 1930 the delivery cart had been replaced by a retail farm stand operated by Thomas and his wife Catherine. Thomas named the farm Idylwilde and for 36 years continued to bring his customers the fresh eggs, quality poultry, and fine vegetables they counted on.
In 1969, the third generation of Massachusetts growers, Thomas, Richard, and David Napoli moved Idylwilde Farms to Acton in order to continue the tradition of quality and service that made the original stand famous.
Today, the business continues to be truly family operated. Along with the three brothers and their mother Catherine, you may catch a glimpse of the next generation, which includes 13 first cousins, helping out at the farm!
The small store on Central Street was replaced in 1985 by the present Dutch barn and greenhouse designed by the Napoli brothers. Local craftsmen built the Post and Beam structure with 100 tons of ash, pine, and Berkshire oak. In this splendid setting, customers continue to truly enjoy shopping year-round for their daily meals and special occasions in an old world atmosphere. The Napoli brothers are grateful to all their customers, friends, and dedicated staff who have helped Idylwilde Farms grow and extend a warm invitation to all to visit.