Students Put Agrarian Vision Into Practice at New Summer Work Tradition

This summer, Chesterton Academy of the Willamette Valley students spent two days at the farm of Mr. Matt Edmonds, a Chesterton teacher, where work, fellowship, and service came together in a new tradition.

Mr. Edmonds hosted a men’s wood-cutting, splitting, and camping event for current students, incoming freshmen, and Headmaster Nick Plato.

The group began early each day, spending long hours cutting, splitting, stacking, and delivering firewood. (In true Chesterton fashion, there was still time for frisbee and plenty of good-natured fun between the hard work.)

In the evening, they shared dinner around an open fire and camped under the stars. The experience reflected Chesterton’s Agrarian Vision, which emphasizes engagement with the natural world, the formation of a strong work ethic, service to others, and a balanced rhythm of work, fellowship, and rest.

For students, the event provided practical formation in cooperation, problem-solving, and fellowship.

The firewood delivered during the project will support local Chesterton families, making the effort both formative and directly beneficial to the school community.

We are grateful to Mr. Edmonds for hosting the group at his farm and for helping establish what we hope will become a lasting Chesterton tradition.