The Friends of the Agricultural History Farm Park, Inc., a 501(c) (3) organization, was established in 1995 by Wendy Hanley, Diane Geary, Mike Roth, Laura Ann Whirley, and a group of devoted charter members. Our purpose is to assist M-NCPPC in carrying out the objectives of the Master Plan for the Ag History Farm Park, and interpret past and present farming techniques through programs at the Farm.
The Park is also home to a number of historic buildings. For more information on the buildings and history behind the Agricultural Farm Park, click here and explore this and other parks in Montgomery County.
The Farm BuiIdings
- The Bank Barn: The Park’s original bank barn, constructed in 1895, represents typical barns found in Montgomery County at the turn of the century.
- Magruder-Bussard Farmstead: The Magruder-Bussard Farmhouse presents a fascinating view into early 20th century farm life. The house was the heart of the farm and the center of family life.
- Historic Outbuildings: Visitors can see each of the historic outbuildings, including a granary, a maintenance shed, an equipment shed, a water tank house, a corn crib, a woodshed, a smoke house, a chicken coop, a broody house, a carriage shed, a hay barracks, and of course, the privy.
- The Activity Center: The Activity Center houses federal, state and county government agencies.
Newmantown
The Park includes a 39-acre parcel on the western edge of the farm that was once home to a kinship-based African American community begun in 1879. Albert and Mary Newman purchased a part of the “Cook’s Inheritance” and constructed a house and several outbuildings.
The Orchard
Orchards were typical of many turn-of-the-century farms. Fruits were picked, canned and consumed throughout the year by the farm family, and the fruit was sold at markets for additional income.
(more information found at Montgomery Parks website.)