New Jersey is the Garden State, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that we’re home to over 715,000 acres of farmland. Once upon a time, we had even more. While much of our historic farmland has since been transformed into bustling cities and charming downtowns, you can still find some preserved farmland being put to good use. New Jersey’s living history farms bring the past to life! Be sure to check out Fosterfields, Longstreet, and others. One of our historic farms is being used for another incredible purpose – bringing art to the masses.

The Kennedy Martin Stelle Farmstead is a 4-acre history site located in Bernards Township, Basking Ridge. The property dates back to 1717 and it was home to a working farm for over 250 years.
Farmstead Arts Center/Facebook
Notable owners include Gerald Pearson, a physicist whose work at Bell Labs led to the invention of the solar cell, and Col. Ephraim Martin, a former New Jersey state legislator.
Farmstead Arts Center/Facebook
When the property was purchased by Bernards Township in 1999, many buildings were in disrepair. Now, it's run by an incredible non-profit organization that supports the arts. This is why it's so important to preserve historic sites. They keep our fascinating past alive, and are often re-purposed in fun and/or charming ways.
The Farmstead Arts Center/Google

Related Stories

This Garden State Animal Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect New Jersey Day Trip

This Garden State Animal Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect New Jersey Day Trip

 I've Lived In New Jersey, My Entire Life And I've Never Had Boardwalk Fries And Lemonade

I've Lived In New Jersey, My Entire Life And I've Never Had Boardwalk Fries And Lemonade

 Anything Is Possible For Young Kids At This Immersive Children's Museum In New Jersey

Anything Is Possible For Young Kids At This Immersive Children's Museum In New Jersey
The Farmstead Arts Center isn't just a gallery, which would be good enough for us! It offers ever-changing exhibits, a variety of classes, and entertaining events.
Farmstead Arts Center/Facebook
Make a mosaic, learn to paint, or enjoy live music when you visit.
Farmstead Arts Center/Facebook
Perhaps you'll come for a comedy show or learn the ancient art of “Pysanky” - Ukrainian Easter egg decorating.
Farmstead Arts Center/Facebook
There are Sunday concerts once a month from May-September, four immersive history lessons each year, shopping boutiques, and theater performances produced by The Lord Stirling Theater Company.
Farmstead Arts Center/Facebook

There’s always something interesting and exciting going on here. I can’t believe I only learned about it this year! A local favorite, it’s a hidden gem for those outside the immediate area. Have you been? Learn more about their history and classes here.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
450 King George Rd, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA