National Dairy Month
June is National Dairy Month: A Time to Honor a Generational Legacy in Orange County, NY
Each June, communities across the United States celebrate National Dairy Month—a time to recognize the essential role that dairy farmers play in feeding the nation and supporting rural economies. Often called the “complete food,” milk products provide a range of essential vitamins and nutrients that support a healthy way of living and has been trusted for decades. Nowhere is this celebration of milk more deeply rooted than in Orange County, New York, where dairy farming has shaped the landscape, the culture, and generations of hardworking families.
National Dairy Month began in 1937 as “National Milk Month,” initiated by grocers to help stabilize dairy demand during peak milk production season. Sponsored by the National Dairy Council, it was initially a campaign to encourage people to drink more milk. Over time, observance evolved into National Dairy Month, expanding its scope to promote all dairy products and to celebrate the dairy industry’s contributions to nutrition, local economies, and rural traditions.
Throughout the decades, National Dairy Month has become a platform for educational outreach, farm tours, community breakfasts, and public appreciation for dairy farmers. It’s a reminder that behind every glass of milk or wedge of cheese is a farmer and a family dedicated to sustainable agriculture.
Today, National Dairy Month focuses not only on promoting the health benefits of dairy but also on highlighting sustainable practices, innovation in the industry, and the stories of the farm families behind the scenes. Social media campaigns, school programs, 4-H programs, FFA chapters, and local events bring consumers closer to the source of their food, often emphasizing farm-to-table connections.
In counties like Orange County, NY, this month is a meaningful time to celebrate the resilience of local dairy farms and their contribution to food security, land stewardship, and community heritage.
The dairy industry in Orange County, New York has a long-standing history. In the 1800’s, butter served as a staple product for dairy producers due to its extended shelf life. In fact, in 1875 alone, Goshen exported almost 3 million pounds of butter globally. However, milk exports remained low due to transportation challenges. To increase milk exports, the railroad was introduced, a new technology that allowed milk to be shipped to large populations, such as New York City. The lead engineer behind this project, Thaddeus Selleck, saw an opportunity to ship fresh milk into the city, and promoted the “golden product”. The milk from the 4,016 farms in Orange County had a rich butterfat layer that was new to city consumers and increased its attraction. By 1880, countless dairy
operations were bottling and selling their milk, a product renowned for its high quality and excellence. Throughout the 20th century, Orange County remained a cornerstone of New York State’s dairy industry. Cooperative creameries and family-run farms thrived, often passed down through generations. The arrival of bulk milk tanks, refrigerated trucks, and milking machines modernized operations, allowing farms to increase productivity and improve food safety.
Orange County still has milk bottling facilities today, such as Stap Dairy and Peaceful Valley Dairy. These farms looked for alternative methods to attract consumers, and found the answer in the milk bottle, a staple from so long ago. As for Stap Dairy, Garrett Stap saw a way to promote his product after a halt on milk exports, when the Jamaica-Queens Elmhurst Milk Plant closed. In a recent interview with NYAAC, Garrett added that their milk is unique in the fact that they do not use a homogenizer or cream separator. The milk has a layer of rich cream, which embodies the high-quality milk that was exported from Orange County so many years ago. Mike and Michelle Miedema at Peaceful Valley Farm have additionally expanded their customer base, providing local bottled milk for grocery stores and food banks. Their quality products are highly acknowledged across Orange County. Both farms are generational dairy operations, which makes preserving their practices much more important.
Today, just around 20 dairy farms continue to operate in Orange County, New York. It is a rich history, dating back countless generations of farming families. For families in Orange County, dairy farming is more than a business—it’s a way of life. Generations have grown up on these farms, learning the value of hard work, stewardship, and resilience. Farm kids who once did chores before school are now the next wave of agricultural leaders, blending tradition with innovation. The barns dotting the countryside aren’t just picturesque—they are symbols of resilience, family, and the unbroken bond between land and livelihood. The dairy industry has woven itself into the cultural fabric of Orange County, evident in local fairs, 4-H clubs, school farm days, and community support for local dairies.
As we celebrate National Dairy Month, we honor the enduring legacy of dairy farmers in Orange County and across the nation. Their work nourishes our bodies and our communities—past, present, and future.
To embrace the history of the dairy industry in Orange County, visit Alex Prizgintas at the Orange County Milk Bottle Museum.
Sources:
Orange County Dairy Farms Past and Present - Hudson Valley Press
Business Is Business on NY Dairy Farms - New York Animal Agriculture Coalition
Orange County Dairy Farming History – Hello. I'm Alex.
Celebrating June Dairy Month | Focus on Ag | American Farm Bureau Federation
Last updated May 30, 2025