Southern Oregon's hills and mountains define the landscape as the road sweeps into a curve and suddenly a head-on view of a handsome two-story Classic Revival farm house comes into view, giving an impression of stability, comfort, and substance. Michael and Martha Hanley chose the location for their farmhouse well. For over 158 years the occupants of this stately house were witness to the growth and prosperity of southern Oregon and to amazing changes in American culture. The three generations of Hanley's were more than observers. They represent the pioneering energy, resourcefulness and enterprise that settled the American frontier.
The Hanley farmstead, under continuous management by the Hanley family from 1857 to 1986, is a unique treasure to be preserved and experienced. On warm summer afternoons, visitors seek out the cool shade of the great trees, spread out their family picnics, and wander through early barns of weathered timbers, discovering rural life of times past. Large draft horses pull mowers through the fields; farm wagons carry visitors of all ages on a tour of the farm.
As one steps through the doorway of the imposing farmhouse and into the house with its intact furnishings, it is easy to imagine Hanley family members going about their daily life as tour guides relay family history and stories. Three generations of Hanley women planned, created and planted a large and varied ornamental garden, bringing plants from California and the Portland, Oregon area, always seeking beauty among the unusual. Many of these vintage varieties remain, to the delight of both experienced and novice gardeners.
The goal of the Southern Oregon Historical Society is to facilitate the preservation and enhancement of this treasured farmstead, its artifacts and the unique and total experience that can be had by visitors, from near and far. In addition to the restoration of historic structures, Hanley Farm is intended to provide visitors with a more complete understanding of American rural life and the agricultural history of southern Oregon. This is a vision we can all take pride in as we work to see it fulfilled. This is, after all, the American story. read more
