The Homeplace On Green River Instills Respect For Our Farm Heritage And Serves As An Outdoor Classroom For Agriculture And Conse

Around 1803, a man named Tate and his family established their farm on 227 acres of land on the Green River just about where Taylor, Green, and Adair counties meet. More than 200 years later, the farm is now known as The Homeplace on Green River and remains a living legacy to Kentucky’s agricultural heritage.

Established in 2001 as a historical and natural resources conservation site, The Homeplace offers a snapshot of 19th- and early 20th-century family farm life through its historical buildings and a series of special events and living-history exhibits, all open to the public.

Although The Homeplace is still very much a work in progress and not ready for daily tours, they do welcome study groups, school groups, and individuals interested in Kentucky’s farming heritage by appointment only. Visitors can see the working grain and forage farm while ongoing renovations continue on buildings and the Tate family cemetery. Also located on the grounds is the state’s largest winged elm tree.

Through special educational events held throughout the year, The Homeplace connects 21st-century visitors with the past and promotes enduring respect for agriculture and the natural world, says Ken Forman, president of The Homeplace board of directors.

“We are educating our children and the public about the role of agriculture, our natural resources, and rural culture,” Forman says. “History is best learned when experienced.”

But The Homeplace is not just about the past, according to Forman. Lindsey Wilson College students use The Homeplace as a laboratory where they learn about regional history by preserving oral histories and assist with restoration projects. They contribute to discovering better ways to preserve the region’s natural resources and to develop sustainable agricultural methods for the 21st century and beyond.

The Homeplace on Green River is located on Highway 55 in Taylor County. To arrange a visit, phone Becky Nash at the Taylor County Extension Service at (270) 465-4511. Admission is free. KL

THE HOMEPLACE FALL HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Visit September 11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., to see blacksmiths and potters demonstrate 19th-century tools and techniques, arts and crafts items for sale, and a quilt show. Visitors will also learn how teams of horses and mules helped generations of farmers harvest hay and corn crops and bring them to market. For more information, call (270) 789-8538.