Valley View Farm was founded in 1905 by Corbly P. and Belle Orndorff, and has been passed down through four generations of the Orndorff family. The original farmstead, built by the Anderson family in the late 1800’s, has seen numerous changes since it was purchased by the Orndorff’s.  Each generation has adapted this picturesque property to sustain a viable agricultural business. The current owners, Corbly L. and Christy Whyte Orndorff, saw the incredible potential for hosting weddings and events, as well as creating positive change in the community.

Originally operating as a carriage horse trading center, Corbly P. was the “car dealer” of his time, selling horses and carriages to the community. The farm then passed down to Charles B. and Marion Huffman Orndorff, who would have many business ventures and one true passion.

Affectionately known as “Daddy Charles,” Charles B. dabbled in many businesses – auctioneer, real estate, car dealer, even a short stint as Greene County Treasurer – but held a true passion for draft horses. His love started while supplying work horses to coal mines and local farmers. By the 1940’s, he began raising purebred Belgians – as traditional horsepower became obsolete.

With the advancements in agriculture post World War II, the third generation to maintain the farm, J. Clark and Mary Lou Litman Orndorff operated a farm machinery business along with the beloved Belgians.  Clark traded used equipment with local farmers and was one of the first equipment dealers to promote the use of brush hogs to keep farm properties neatly mowed.  They really took pride in maintaining an immaculate estate that is still seen today.

The fourth generation, Charlotte (Bob Dinsmore), Christina (Rodney Lemley), Clarketta (Dave Simpson), and Corbly L. (Christy Whyte), is the most recent Orndorffs to live on the estate.  The Belgians, once the pride of “Daddy Charles,” have become Orndorff’s Belgians, LLC, which is run by Corbly L. and Christina. Operating since 1984, Orndorff’s Belgians maintain a herd size of at least 40 registered breeding stock and over 80 head during spring foaling season.

Along with operating Valley View Farm, Corbly L. and Christy, with children Cassandra and Caitlin, have extensively renovated the original barn and expanded the structure to include additions for events of all kinds.  The rustic farmhouse setting of Valley View Farm creates a cozy intimacy, perfect for a romantic wedding or any gathering of family and friends.

More than just an event venue, Valley View Farm has a mission to give back to the community it has been a part of since the 1900’s.  The family’s vision is to create a warm, peaceful haven for those whose life has been put on pause – due to crisis, illness or loss – and help them find hope, peace, and new beginnings.

Ten percent of all rentals benefit Butterfly Angels: The McKinley Anne Foundation, a local nonprofit whose mission is to provide emotional and financial support for bereaved parents who have lost a child, including support groups and local resources. To find out more about the foundation visit www.butterflyangels.org.