The Homeplace 1850s

The Homeplace: A Living History Farm

History lovers and horticultural enthusiasts, alike, will find something new and interesting to learn about life on a middle Tennessee farm at The Homeplace 1850s. The farm is part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Interpreters there demonstrate how our forefathers farmed, lived and entertained themselves during the Victorian Era, an era void of "first-world problems" and mobile devices.

The Homeplace 1850s Working Farm and Living History Museum is a unique attraction that visitors of all ages and interests will enjoy. So, check out the many offerings available here and be sure to make this a must-see attraction on your itinerary during your visit to Kentucky Lake.

Tour Authentic 1850s Log Structures

The farm has successfully secured and preserved 16 original log structures that are located on the premises of this working farm. Fifteen of these structures were found within 10 miles of the Pryor Creek area. Each one gives visitors a glimpse into what life was really like on a Victorian farm. You can observe what it was like to cook meals and to keep house in these log structures. It's a glimpse into the past that will make you appreciate the amenities of modern life.

Learn Victorian Etiquette

There are certain rules of behavior that the interpreters will remind visitors to do while visiting The Homeplace 1850s. For instance, it will be tempting to rest your weary bones on the old beds, but according to the Time Travelers Guide to the Homeplace 1850s Farm no one would have dreamed of unsettling these beds that had to be fluffed daily. Therefore, they ask that visitors refrain from doing so, as well.

Get to Know the Heritage Breeds of Livestock

Because the 1850s Homeplace strives to be authentic in every way, they raise heritage breeds of livestock. Many of these animals are rare or endangered. While you're walking around the grounds, take a gander at the chickens, ducks and mules that live on the farm. The interpreters ask that you only observe the animals and do not pet or feed them while you're there.

Farm Hands are Sometimes Welcome

Visit the 1850s Homeplace during weeding and harvest time and the farm will welcome a few extra hands to help out with the chores. The farm's interpreters will teach you proper methods for tending to the plants in the gardens. Be sure to ask them if you can help before you set to work.

Heirloom Seeds and Vegetables

Heirloom vegetables are grown on the farm and are used to create authentic 1850s dishes. The farm also demonstrates how to preserve vegetables as the early settlers would have done more than 150 years ago.

Occasionally, the farm produces more heirloom seeds and vegetables than they actually need. When that happens, they happily share the fruits of their labors with guests at the farm.

Visit Often

This working history farm is a destination worth visiting at least once a year. However, more visits are encouraged as many of the demonstrations change from season to season. The farm is open March 1 through November 30 and is located just 15 minutes south of the Visitor Center on the Trace.  

The Homeplace Quick Facts

SEASON  March 1 through November 30
HOURS  March & November:  Wednesday-Sunday 10a-5p; April through October open daily 10a-5p
ADMISSION  Ages 16 & up is $7.00; Ages 15 and under are free
GPS  N 36 39' 17.4" / W 87 58' 32.9"  {Map It!}
LOCATION  11.8 miles / 15 minutes south of the Visitor Center on the Trace.

See More of Land Between The Lakes

One could spend multiple days experiencing all of LBL's attractions and activities.  In fact, one day just won't cut it!  Plan to spend a few days in and around LBL on your next vacation.  Here are some lodging options to help you find a place to stay when visiting.