The best way to learn about history is hands-on, and a farm in Central Jersey lets your kids chop wood, work a 1900s stove, plant corn, and sheer sheep – and it’s all free!
During the Saturday Events at Howell Living History Farm, you’ll be transported to the early 1900s to learn about what life was like on a farm. After signing in at the Visitor’s Center you’ll get a map to show you where to see the sheep, cows and chickens; visit the horse stable; go inside the farmhouses; and watch a blacksmith demo. There’s a large open field for horse-pulled wagon rides across the bridge and a maple sugar shack that’s open this month for sugaring demos (and sampling).
Activities vary by the week’s theme. Throughout the year kids can help saw or chop wood, watch chickens lay eggs, taste scrapple or cookies made in a 1904 stove, take a ride on a sleigh pulled by a horse, watch herding dogs rein in sheep, take part in sheep shearing, plant potatoes, learn about orchard care and watch the dentist check on the animals.
Re-enactors will answer all your questions about the land, the history and the Howells. Though the family never lived on the farm, they donated it to Mercer County in the 1970s so it could remain as a farm. One of the houses is open for you to explore.
When you’re done walking through the fields, you can return to the Visitors Center and order lunch from the kitchen, and sit at the cafe inside the barn where you can see beautiful quilts and have the kids do a craft activity related to the theme of the day.
Howell Living History Farm also has Naturally Friends Programs, where you can see swallows, bats, owls and insects up close; or join a special storytime that includes a visit to the barnyard. There are select days on the schedule throughout the year.
The farm dates back to the 1730s, and there are still 45 acres farmed for animal and program needs, with crops like oat, hay, corn and other vegetables – and eggs. There are taps on 450 maple trees. Potatoes are donated to the Trenton food co-op. Last year, 50,000 tons of food were donated to Homefront, Ewing Helping Hands, Mt. Carmel Guild and the food pantry in Hopewell.
Howell Living History Farm is located at 70 Woodens Ln. in Hopewell Twp. The Saturday events are held from 10 am to 4 pm, with most activities taking place from 11 am to 3 pm. Plan to spend 60-90 minutes walking around and taking part in all the activities.
Starting in April, the farm will be open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday and welcomes school groups. Prepare for the outdoors and wear sneakers. This is a farm, so the paths are uneven and rocky. You can roll a stroller or a wagon over most areas, but parts can be muddy and rocky.
If you’re spending time in the area, Washington Crossing State Park and the D&R Canal are nearby, adding more nature and history to your day trip. It’s also near Bucks County, PA.
Check out all the great things you can do at the farm through our Instagram reel.
Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram!
Read More:
This Mercer County Town is One of The Most Unique in New Jersey
Where to Try Maple Sugaring in New Jersey
Living History Farms in New Jersey
Free Things to Do in February in New Jersey
60+ Things to Do Outdoors in NJ
