One of the best ways to understand a state's history is to get up-close-and-personal with its agricultural past. The early days of many states included farming as the base of the economy. As a result, generations and generations of families have stuck close to the farms that have been a part of their families. Learning more about the state's past by visiting these farms is a great way to get a better understanding of what came before us. This working farm in New Hampshire is a beautiful way to get some history and some outdoors time.
The Muster Field Farm and Harvey Homestead are one of the best ways to learn about early New Hampshire history. Located in Sutton, a visit at any time of year includes fun activities and lots of beauty.
Matthew Harvey came to the town of Sutton at 22. He dedicated much of his life to the town and the state acting as church deacon, selectman, tavern keeper and state representative. He died in 1799 as the town's largest landowner.
Matthew Harvey's descendants continued the tradition and lived at the homestead continually until 1941. That's 150 years!
The home and surrounding land was bought by the family of Robert Stannard Bristol. Bob was responsible for the bringing the land back to life, while also cultivating a dairy and chicken farm here.
Today, the working farm and homestead museum are a wonderful tribute to two families who dedicated much of their lives to making sure New Hampshire's history is preserved.
Year round activities, including the annual ice day in January, allows visitors to partake in New Hampshire life the way it once was.
This is one of the most popular events all year!
There are also a number of fun events for folks who prefer things like music.
The June Jam is a must-see if you love local music and time outside in the sunshine.
Winter offers an opportunity for self-guided tours around the property.
Whatever you come for and whenever you choose to visit, you'll have a wonderful time reliving a piece of New Hampshire's past while seeing how things are still done on a farm.
Muster Field Farm Museum and the Matthew Harvey Homestead are open year-round for self-guided tours. You can visit the Harvey Homestead on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. from July through their Harvest Day in the fall. The farm stand is open in the summer from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Learn more about the farm on their website or check them out on Facebook.
Address: Harvey Road, North Sutton, NH 03260.
To continue your New Hampshire farm adventures, check out these 9 farm stands that are open all summer. They're packed with goodies and produce that you'll love taking home.
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