Jackson purchase of Rova Farms for open space fitting tribute to Slavic culture: Letter

It was recently announced that Jackson was proceeding with the acquisition of the former Rova Farms property for preservation as open space. The local government should be commended and supported in this decision.

During its heyday, Rova Farms represented one of the great epicenters of Slavic culture in the United States. It was founded by the White émigré: Tsarists, aristocrats and Eastern Orthodox religious leaders and faithful who opposed the Bolsheviks during the Russian Civil War and were forced to flee the Soviet Union following the ultimate victory of communism.

For many decades, Rova Farms was known throughout the world as the premier gathering place for those of Russian, Ukrainian, and Cossack descent. In the summer months, thousands would flock there for celebrations like the annual St. Vladimir’s Day festival, which attracted the likes of Grand Duke Vladimir Kirillovich Romanov, heir to the Russian throne, and the much-beloved Archbishop Vitaly (Maximenko). 

As a result, the lives and memories of countless Slavs throughout the world are inseparably intertwined with the property. Though vacant and neglected for more than a decade, Rova Farms, ideally situated between the waterfront and the gorgeous Russian Orthodox Cathedral, is an idyllic space, the likes of which are increasingly rare in this era of hyper development.

Whereas the golden era of that once-great Slavic community may be long passed, the public should be able to enjoy Rova Farms as open space. It would be a fitting tribute to our forefathers and a wonderful gift to future generations.

Dennis J. Mikolay II

Long Branch