Rhode Island is the only place in the U.S. that seems more like a beloved historic village than a state. Between its century-old restaurants and taverns, lavish mansions from the past, and places like Coggeshall Farm, it's a history lover's dream come true. And when you visit the Coggeshall Farm Museum, you just might feel like you've gone back to a simpler time (at least temporarily).
You'll find the Coggeshall Farm Museum in Colt State Park in Bristol.
This might seem like an odd spot, but when you take into consideration the fact that it's a real eighteenth century coastal tenant farm, it makes sense.
The farm dates all the way back to the early 19th century, when Wilbur and Eliza Coggeshall were tenant farmers and this was their home.
In 1965, the State of Rhode Island purchased the property for use as a state park. And in 1973, Coggeshall Farm Museum was incorporated as "a quiet, authentic place for 20th-century Americans to observe the lifestyles of 1750 Rhode Island."
The family who first owned this farm was pretty remarkable.
The Coggeshall's son, Chandler Coggeshall, was a state politician who eventually helped found what is now the University of Rhode Island in 1888.
The buildings have all been as well-preserved as possible, and it's clear that excellent care has been taken here.
When the Bristol Historical Society petitioned the state for permission to preserve the farm house on the property as a museum, they clearly took the job seriously.
The museum is meant to recreate the life of an early tenant farmer.
That means that real animals call this place home, and they're adorable.
While Rhode Islanders are still being cautious about group outings, some small events, like outdoor music and haunted happenings, are allowed to proceed.
And despite this being a historic landmark, all modern day methods are used to keep everything safe and sanitary.
This is the perfect time of year to visit the Coggeshall Farm Museum.
The museum is open Friday - Sunday, but hours vary. The cost for an adult visit is $10, and it's well worth the price of admission.
Learn more about this historic treasure and plan your visit here.
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