Heritage Farmstead Association

The Heritage Farmstead Association is a US nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of a historic Texas farmstead. This organization manages the Heritage Farmstead Museum, a living history site interpreting the Texas Blackland Prairie region in North Texas[1][4].

Mission

The mission of the Heritage Farmstead Association is to preserve a historic Texas farmstead, providing a venue where people can experience and learn from agrarian roots. As an institution of public service, it strives to be accountable through government, self, and peer-imposed regulations[1][5].

History

The farmstead, located in Plano, Texas, includes a late-Victorian farmhouse built in 1891 by Hunter Farrell. The property originally spanned 365 acres and was notable for its wheat farm operation, managed largely by Mary Alice Farrell after her divorce in 1928. The farm remained in operation until 1972, when Ammie Wilson, Mary Alice's daughter, passed away. The nonprofit Heritage Farmstead Association was formed in 1973 to preserve the historic home and grounds[1][2][3].

Activities and Programs

The Heritage Farmstead Museum offers public tours, educational programs, and various events throughout the year. These include guided tours of the Victorian home, mule-drawn wagon rides, sheep shearing demonstrations, and activities such as summer camps and farm festivals. The museum caters to a wide audience, including school groups and international visitors[3][5].

Educational Programs

The association provides educational programs for school field trips, focusing on agricultural history from 1891 to 1936. Other initiatives include Touch & Learn Curiosity Crates for classroom use and Little Farmer Fridays for preschoolers. The museum also supports the Junior Historians of Texas and offers opportunities for Scout groups to earn badges through self-guided visits[5].

Community Involvement

As a nonprofit, the Heritage Farmstead Association relies on community support for its operations. The organization encourages financial donations and volunteering, with roles including leading educational tours, maintaining the farmstead, and assisting with events[3][4].

Recognition

The Heritage Farmstead Museum is an accredited institution of the American Alliance of Museums. It has been recognized with a State of Texas Historical marker and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places[1][2].