Hezekiah S. Ramsdell Farm facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Hezekiah S. Ramsdell Farm
|
|
View from the farm site to West Thompson Reservoir
|
|
 Location in Connecticut
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | West Thompson Reservoir lands, formerly Ramsdell Rd., Thompson, Connecticut |
|---|---|
| Area | 10 acres (4.0 ha) |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival, Federal, Pennsylvania style |
| NRHP reference No. | 90000442 |
| Added to NRHP | August 23, 1990 |
The Hezekiah S. Ramsdell Farm was a special old farm in Thompson, Connecticut. It's not there anymore, but the land is now a hiking trail near the West Thompson Reservoir. This farm became famous because of a brave woman named Alice Ramsdell. She owned the farm and refused to leave when the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) wanted her land. They needed it for a big flood control project in the 1960s. Alice stood her ground, and eventually, the government let her stay. The farm was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, recognizing its importance.
Contents
History of the Ramsdell Farm
Early Days of the Farm
Hezekiah Ramsdell, a traveling Methodist minister, bought the farm in 1825. The main house was very old, built around 1736. It was a special type of Georgian-style home. It had unique brick walls at its ends.
Alice Ramsdell grew up on this farm. She learned how to use and fix farm equipment. She also took care of a small apple orchard.
The Big Flood and Government Plans
In 1955, the Quinebaug River nearby had a terrible flood. It was one of the worst floods ever recorded in Connecticut. After this big flood, the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) made plans. They wanted to build the West Thompson Reservoir. This reservoir would help stop future floods.
Alice Ramsdell's Stand
The USACE needed to buy land from many people for the reservoir. They talked to over 50 landowners. Alice Ramsdell was the only one who said no to their offer. The government then used something called eminent domain. This means the government can take private land for public use, even if the owner doesn't want to sell.
Even after the land was taken, Alice refused to leave her home. There was a famous story that she met government officials while holding a shotgun. In the end, the government agreed to her demand. She was allowed to stay on her property. She paid a small rent to the USACE.
The Farm's Later Years
Alice Ramsdell passed away in 1995. After her death, the farm buildings had become quite old and worn out. The USACE planned to tear them down. However, the buildings were saved! They were moved to another nearby farm. Today, you can visit the original farm site by following a hiking trail.
