Hale Farm and Village

Historic Farming Today

In 1810 Connecticut farmer Jonathan Hale purchased 500 acres from the Connecticut Land Company in the Cuyahoga River Valley section of the Connecticut Western Reserve. Hale Farm and Village showcases agrarian life in the new state of Ohio.

In 1810 Connecticut farmer Jonathan Hale purchased 500 acres from the Connecticut Land Company in the Cuyahoga River Valley section of the Connecticut Western Reserve. After an arduous journey west, Hale cleared the land to create a homestead where his family lived and farmed for many years. Three generations of the Hale family worked the land until 1956 when Hale’s great granddaughter Clara Belle Richie donated the land to the Western Reserve Historical Society for the purpose of creating a museum. The original museum featured the family’s furnished brick house, as well as historic farm equipment. As the museum grew, 34 historic structures were moved to the site to create a replica village where visitors can see living history portrayals of mid-nineteenth century agrarian life. Hale Farm and Village is a popular destination for families, offering historic buildings, farm animals, heritage gardens, and early American craft demonstrations including glassblowing, blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, and candle-making.

Notes for Travelers

During November and December, this site is closed except for special events. Remember to wear appropriate clothing for outdoors activities.