High Breeze Farm facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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High Breeze Farm
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Main House
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 Location in Sussex County, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Highland Lakes, New Jersey |
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| Area | 162 acres (66 ha) |
| Architectural style | Late 19th And 20th Century Revivals, Federal, English barn |
| NRHP reference No. | 89000993 |
| Added to NRHP | July 27, 1989 |
High Breeze Farm, also known as Barrett Farm, is a historic farm located in the Highland Lakes area of Vernon Township, in Sussex County, New Jersey, United States. It's a special place that shows us how farming used to be done a long time ago.
A Look Back: The Farm's History
This farm, covering about 160 acres, was first owned by the Demarest family from 1818 to 1860. Then, the Barrett family bought it. The main farmhouse was built in 1828. Other buildings, like barns, were added between 1860 and 1935.
The Barrett family ran the farm from 1860 all the way to 1986. They kept their farming methods very traditional. It was mainly a "subsistence farm," meaning they grew food mostly for their own family. Four generations of Barretts worked here. They raised animals like horses, cows, and chickens. They also grew crops such as hay, corn, turnips, and fruits like apples and peaches. They even made honey and maple syrup!
Luther J. Barrett was the last family member to farm the land. He used old-fashioned ways, almost like farming in the 1800s. For example, he used a draft horse for most of the farm work. When he passed away in 1986, the farm still didn't have modern plumbing, central heating, or telephones. However, they did get some electricity in 1948.
In 1981, the State of New Jersey bought the farm. It became part of Wawayanda State Park. In 1989, there were plans to tear down the farm buildings. But the Vernon Historical Society, especially Ron Dupont Jr., fought to save it. Ron Dupont Jr. got school children involved and showed many presentations about why the farm was important. His hard work paid off! High Breeze Farm was saved and listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Today, High Breeze Farm is the only old farm left on Wawayanda Mountain. The main house, barn, and other buildings are still there. They are part of a "living history museum" that was restored in 1992. You can also see old farm tools and equipment used by the Barretts, like mowers and iron wheels.
High Breeze Farm Today
Today, Bill Becker runs High Breeze Farm. He continues to use traditional farming methods. The farm sells produce that is "Certified Naturally Grown." This means they follow rules similar to organic farming standards. They avoid modern pesticides and chemical fertilizers. They also don't use big machines for farming. This helps keep the farm's historic practices alive. You can find maple syrup, eggs, pork, and beef from the farm.
Fun Events at the Farm
High Breeze Farm has hosted special events. In 2009 and 2010, the Black Powder Association held their yearly gathering here. Members dressed up in clothes from before the 1840s. They showed off old crafts and activities. Different groups focused on different time periods. They even camped in teepees or old-style tents.
One exciting event was the "Seneca Run" competition. People had to start a fire using a tinderbox, flint, and steel. They also used bows and arrows and fired old black powder muskets.
The farm also has about fifty sugar maple trees. This means people can celebrate the historic way of making maple syrup. During these events, people dress in period clothing from the 1700s or 1800s. They talk about how syrup was made long ago. It's a weekend full of fun, including crafts, cooking, and shooting in the old style.
High Breeze Farm is also a great spot for hikers. Since it's part of Wawayanda State Park, you can find 40 miles of trails for biking and hiking. This includes a part of the famous Appalachian Trail. From the farm, you can also see amazing views of Orange County, New York.
