Comedian Jon Stewart and his wife Tracey have officially purchased the historic Hockhockson Farm in Colts Neck, New Jersey to expand their work rehabilitating animals with the mission-based Farm Sanctuary organization.
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The former "Daily Show" host bought the 45-acre farm for $4 million through JTS Land Trust, property records show, with plans to repurpose its three houses and 12 outbuildings for a variety of farm activities, according to an April report from the Two River Times.
Stewart and his wife have long been dedicated to the cause of animal welfare, including Tracy's authorship of a popular etiquette guide — "Do Unto Animals" — and the establishment of the 12-acre Bufflehead Farm.
This time around, the couple reportedly plans to renovate a visitor's center and create a curriculum that will provide training on animal care and sustainable agriculture. To obtain zoning permit, however, they still need to obtain approval from the Monmouth County Agriculture Development Board.
Earlier this year, the family made headlines with their heartwarming purchase of Lily, an Arabian mix horse who was allegedly pelted with paintballs and abandoned at a Pennsylvania auction farm. Sadly, Lily passed away in June, but not before she got some TLC.
The Stewarts provide regular updates on their farm activities through the "Daily Squeal" Facebook page, including afternoon belly rubs.
At Hockhocksen, the couple aims to use 15 acres to grow crops that will feed cows, pigs, sheep, goats, horses and chickens. Most of the abused animals are rescued from slaughter houses, kill piles, live markets and roadsides.
A property listing on Zillow indicates that Hockhockson Farm, located on Route 537, dates back to around 1777.