To support the study of classical natural philosopy and the modern natural sciences, the Classical Liberal Arts Academy maintains 15 acres of farm and garden space. On the farm, we keep cattle, goats, hogs and hens. In the gardens, we grow a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs and medicinal plants.
Before devoting myself to the Classical studies, I was a pre-medical student at Rutgers University, working in a chemistry lab. My love of the natural sciences was surpassed by my desire for classical studies, but I have always maintained an interest in natural philosophy and the modern natural sciences. The farm allows me to continue my studies in these fields, while also improving the Academy’s ability to teach these important subjects with the benefit of living experience.
Our farm and garden work allows for experimental study of plants, animals and nature in general, and we direct our work by the works of classical natural philosophy, which allows us to gain a hands-on understanding of and appreciation for the ancient texts. These texts include Aristotle’s Physics, Meterology and History of Animals; Theophrastus’ History of Plants; Pliny’s Natural History; Vergil’s Georgics; the agricultural works of Cato, Varro and Columella; the medical writings of Hippocrates, Galen and Dioscorides — and many more.
Mr. William C. Michael, O.P.
