STAFFORD'S MEADOW FARM
The Foundation operates on the grounds of Stafford’s Meadow Farm in Montalba, Texas. It will further the mission of the Stabat Mater Prayer Apostolate (SMPA) to pray for artists, their vocations, their families, and their benefactors.
Stafford’s Meadow Farm engages in agricultural and cultural stewardship, seeking to be a beautiful property for people, livestock, and wildlife. Founded in 1889, the Farm engages in the following:
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Agriculture: Manages livestock, hay, timber, wildlife, crops, and native plants with regenerative methods.
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Recreation: Provides a rural venue for Catholic family gatherings.
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Culture: The "Art Farm" serves as the venue and resource for the Stabat Mater Foundation
Features of the Farm:
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900+ acre heritage farm. Pasture, hardwood timbered areas, hilly East Texas landscape, 1hr30m from Dallas, located about 40 miles off I-45 between Dallas and Houston.
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“The Cross”. A prayer garden at the entrance of the farm features a metal cross fashioned by artist Terry Vogeler. Nature trails and gardens surround.
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“The Caboose”. A camping area complete with a 1940s-era caboose finished and furnished, a bunkhouse, bathrooms, and utility hookups. Nature trails surround.
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“The Big Barn”. Used for group gatherings, meals, and presentations, an original 1950s-era rustic pole-barn sits atop the hill near the farmhouse.
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“Chapel & Guest House” (coming soon). An Artists' Chapel with guest house will be completed in 2021, resting atop an overlook of the original family farm.
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
We are in the architectural phase of a new "Artists' Chapel" and Guest House, which will be the crown jewel of the Stafford's Meadow Farm property. The Chapel will feature art from our Artists, and will be available as part of events and retreats. It will be nestled atop a ridge overlooking the historic 200+ acre original farm:
