Welcome to the Heckler Plains Farmstead, located at the intersection of Morris & Landis Road, Harleysville, PA. The farmstead is part of the Lower Salford Park system, and since it was established in 1975, the Heckler Plains Folklife Society (then Blue Print ’76, later re-named) has worked with Lower Salford Township to maintain and restore the historic structures and preserve the farmstead as representation of a working-man’s farm in the late 1700s-early 1800s. The farmstead boasts a Rhine Valley Bottom Barn dating to 1761, an outdoor bake oven whose baking chamber pre-dates the American Revolution, and a farmhouse, which is currently undergoing a beautiful restoration.
The Society is a non-profit, volunteer organization that hosts several public events during the year. Their programs and events are geared towards all ages, and signing up for a membership has so many rewards! Current members at Heckler Plain Folklife Society include long-timers with storied memories of our area’s past, history enthusiasts who enjoy preserving the lifestyle of our early settlers, and young members who have a passion for community planning, events, restoration and genealogy. The Folklife Society even hosts vintage baseball games that relive and celebrate the way the game was played in the 1860’s….high socks, old school uniforms, an open field, and a whole lot of fun!
The Heckler Plains History Fair is also a huge attraction for our local residents and offers a glimpse into the life of trades and tradesman who helped pave the way for generations to follow. Check out the Heckler Plains FB page for more information on all the latest announcements and see below for a list of upcoming events happening on the Farmstead!
Heckler Plains Folklife Society
2016 EVENT CALENDAR
March 21, 2016 – 7:30 PM Evening Lecture Series (topic to be announced)
Lower Salford Township Building, Harleysville, PA
Saturday, April 30, 10 AM – 2 PM Herb Festival and Craft Show
A variety of herb plants, annuals and perennials are offered for sale. Pies baked in the outdoor bake oven. Juried craft vendors.
Sunday, July 17, 6:30 PM Ice Cream Social at the Bergey Mill Farmstead.
The house and barn are open for touring. Cost is $3 per person.
Saturday, August 20, 10 AM – 4:00 PM Hecklerfest, Heckler Plains Farmstead
Colonial Craft Demonstrators, history/genealogy displays, colonial foods, craft vendors, hands-on craft stations and a double-header vintage baseball game.
Saturday, September 17, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM History Fair at Heckler Plains
Farmstead. This year’s theme will be Trades and Tradesmen.
Friday, December 9, 7:00 PM Carol Night at the Heckler Plains Farmstead
Enjoy a peaceful night of caroling around a bonfire, then retire to the candle-lit, decorated farmhouse for some homemade treats. A wonderful family event. Free.
Sunday, December 11, Noon-4:00 PM Christmas House Tour
Come see the Lower Salford historic park houses decked out in their Christmas finery, along with several other architectural treasures. Admission.
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Heckler Plains Farmstead
237 Landis Rd.
Lower Salford Township
(215) 538-0853
Follow On FB: Heckler Plains Folklife Society