Historical black and white photo of Art Selmi securing tarp on truck bed.

Our History

Four Generations of Selmi's

Selmi’s Farm and Greenhouse has been part of Sauk Valley family traditions since 1951. Grandpa Selmi started in a small greenhouse and over the years, it grew into the sprawling family farm experience we’re known for today. We’re now in our fourth generation as a local, family owned and operated farm with the same quality standards we started with day one.

1910–1920s

From Italy to America

Francisco Selmi travels to America from Italy. During 1927, he acquires his truck license to drive produce to Chicago from Rock Falls, IL.

1930–1940s

Farming Begins

Francisco Selmi starts growing vegetables in 1935 at the Original Selmi Farm located at 1801 Dixon Ave, Rock Falls, IL. This farm is now currently Selmi's U-Pick Orchard.

1950–1960s

Shore Acres Greenhouse

Art Selmi starts Shore Acres Greenhouse in 1952 and begins farming at Selmi's Main Farm located at 1206 Dixon Ave, Rock Falls, IL.

1970–1980s

Pumpkin Patch is Born

In the 1970s, Frank Selmi was the first in his family to go to college and earn a degree from the University of Illinois. After finishing school, Frank married Connie. Then, in 1989, U-Pick Strawberries started, making it the first big year for Agri Tourism.

1990–2000s

4th Generation Begins

As strawberries gained more popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, the farm kept growing, focusing on agri-tourism. Matt Selmi returned to Rock Falls to be near the farm, and he stepped in to manage the greenhouse.

2010–2020s

Farm Expansion

In 2010, Selmi's acquired Cliff's Donuts and integrated it into the fall attractions. Significant growth became apparent as the sweet corn stands expanded to Dixon, IL, new greenhouse was constructed along with an accompanying parking lot, and began planting apple trees to start U-Pick orchard.