This gem of a historic farmstead has become a destination for visitors who want a trip back to the past to see a living working farm and share in those daily life experiences. My husband and I didn't know Nash Farm was even there until we turned a corner a few blocks from historic downtown Grapevine and the farm loomed in front of us.
On that weekday, the green Victorian farmhouse surrounded by a white picket fence appeared deserted except for a friendly, curious yellow cat. He soon wandered off while we explored the perimeter of the house and vegetable garden, peeking in windows and looking for other signs of life.
In a Merchantile shop, we found one half of the married couple who manage Nash Farm for the Grapevine Heritage Foundation. Her husband is the Farm Manager. Together they see that this
historic landmark brings history to life through exhibits, interpretive programs, heritage workshops, and special events. They physically care for the animals and plant, build, repair, stock and love on this piece of property that was rescued from the hands of developers by the farm's immediate neighbors.
Only a working museum since 2009, every year has seen more program offerings for hands on activities; most of which are free and many that are seasonal or reference a holiday. I've taken photos of 2017's Events Calendar to give you an idea of just how much they are offering to bring to life the 19th century on the farm.
This day, it was near closing time and we said we would be back. She still wanted to take us to see the barn and their animals. We were "welcomed" by two frantic flapping turkeys fighting over a hen. They seemed to follow us, squawking and rolling around, claws outstretched as we took in the magnificent barn. There were sheep and goats, chickens in coops, cows, too! A large section of the 5.2 acre remaining homestead is actually being farmed and the produce is sold at Farmer's Markets.
Today we return for "A Victorian Christmas." They've decorated the house and they're giving tours of the farm and house followed by cider and cookies between 3 and 6 p.m. Admission for this event is $3. This time we'll see the interior of the 1869 farmhouse and check out the historic cemetery. There will be Christmas programs throughout December.
This place has hands on farming programs, butchery, woodstove and campfire cooking classes as well as cheese, candy and soap making classes. On Farmstead Living History Fridays, you can join the historic dressed farmhands (volunteers) as they complete their work around the farm.
The admission fee is $3. Class fees vary. Professional photographers who wish to use this location for photo shoots are welcome; but must acquire a permit from the Grapevine Heritage Foundation. It's an amazing place they have preserved for the future.
Addendum: Saturday afternoon we did visit Nash Farm for their "Victorian Christmas" and turned back the clock with their living historians as we toured the barn, grounds and the 1869 Nash home. Cider and cookies were served by the campfire after the tour. They were actually cooking. After closing, the hardworking volunteer group was going to have a period meal in their historical clothes and enjoy what they've accomplished here on this 5.2 acre farm in just a few short years. From trash to treasure! We had fun and it was educational and inexpensive entertainment. I would highly recommend their special events here.
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