Hidden Hollow Farm actually has its roots in Free to be Acres. Free
to be Acres is the rabbitry name that John and his father (Jim) showed under in the 60s, 70s and early 80s. During
this time they were internationally renown for their quality Red, Castor and Black Rex rabbits. Jim was also a licensed
ARBA judge with judging invitations from all regions of the country. Jim was an official judge at 3 ARBA National Conventions,
before his untimely death in 1987. A great many lessons in general animal husbandry were passed on from father to son during
this time. This combined with practical experience in developing and maintaining a quality blood line in rabbits became the
foundation for Hidden Hollow Farm. THANKS DAD....your children and grandchildren miss you.
In 1984 John married Chris Markley. They moved to Lebanon County,
Pa. to start their family and Hidden Hollow Farm was established. During this time they raised mostly Rex, New Zealands
and Silvers. As their twins (Zach and Missy) grew up they developed an interest in rabbits also. Over the years Missy raised
a few breeds including New Zealands, Rex, English Spots, Silvers and now Florida Whites. Zach got his first Dutch from
Steve Easterly and Sally Luckingbill of Reading Pa. Eventually Dutch dominated the barn at Hidden Hollow. Nate (our fourth
child) became interested in Blues and Torts. Amanda (our third child) loves the rabbits but is more interested in sports,
drama and school (more on that later).
Over the years we have been fortunate enough to have made many life
long friendships in the rabbit hobby. Several of these friends have provided invaluable assistance in helping Hidden Hollow
Farm get to the place it is now, establishing a strong foundation in the Dutch breed. Thanks go out to the following:
Ricky Wood of Va., Billy Bounds of Md., Eric Bengtson of Mn., Bob Hessick of Oh., Mike Smith of Mi., The Kline family of Oh.
and Aaron Martin of Pa.
While thanks go out to each of these people for their help over
the years, the success, in Dutch, at Hidden Hollow is based on the loving mentoring provided by Steve and Sally. Sally
Luckingbill provided a wealth of information that is the basis of the herd development program which has led to great success
here at Hidden Hollow. Sally....you will always be remembered and loved......
