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... In the Making Howell Living History Farm is a restoration in progress. Along with buildings, farm machinery and home furnishings, there is a quality of life, and a spirit, that is being restored. It will take years before restoration is complete. But the process can be as exciting as the finished product, so step behind the scenes for a look: Historic farming is being accomplished on a realistic scale, with 45 acres cropped the way the Valley's earlier farmers did. Our goal of accurately portraying the economy of a mixed crop and livestock "family farm" requires continuing efforts in areas of research, equipment collection and restoration, livestock production and horse farming. Animals kept at the Farm are modern-day descendants of breeds raised in this valley in the year 1900. With the help of The American Minor Breeds Conservancy, we hope to "back-breed" livestock and regenerate characteristics of the older breeds. While continuing research helps us reveal and put into practice methods of husbandry that are historically correct, we do use modern feeds, medicines, and veterinary services to ensure the health of our animals. The main barn, a part of which is dated circa 1840, underwent many changes before the farm was given to The Mercer County Park Commission in 1974. An historic study of the barn was completed in 1983. Through the cooperative efforts of the Mercer County Park Commission, the farm's operator, and The Friends of Howell Farm the barn is being restored to look and operate the way it did a century ago. Much of the work is being done with period tools and technology in the interest of preserving and teaching related skills, systems and know-how. The farmhouse also dates back to the early 1800s. For nearly two decades, the farmhouse served as a visitor center and staff offices. With construction of a new visitor center now pcomplete (2003), plans are underway to restore and furnish the house.. and to use it to interpret the domestic side of farm life.
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