A BRIEF HISTORY OF THORNBURG FARM
The Thornburg Farm is preserved as an example of a progressive farmstead by the US Forest Service. As a progressive farm its owners followed the movement begun during the reconstruction era following the civil war where farmers chose adaptive management practices responding to economic and technological developments. Farmers who pursued progressive practices were often informed of new techniques through publications and participation in farmer’s organizations.
The farm as it is seen today reflects how it looked in 1950. However, a closer look reveals architectural elements representing the progress the farm made since its establishment in 1855. Four phases of construction and farm development can be seen in the house. The first house built in 1855 is represented in the west elevation and additions were built over time as the farm grew.
While facing the west side of the house the original portion of the house can be seen as the two-story area with the chimney. In 1880 the front and back porch were added to the original structure and in 1900 the two-story addition was built. A kitchen and back porch were built in 1950 and the house remained unchanged for the rest of its use.
Moving around to the back of the house reveals all construction phases including the well that was constructed in 1855.
An important feature of any farm is the barn. The Thornburg barn housed feed and hay for a variety of livestock depending on the market. Adaptability to market trends was a key component to a progressive farm so the barn was designed to be adaptable and not centered on a single function like a dairy barn would be.
The US Forest Service has maintained and restored this farm with the help of volunteers and partnerships. War veterans, employed in a historic preservation training program, restored the windows on the house and installed a new roof. Volunteers from Michigan saved the barn from collapse, and college students have volunteered during Christmas break to save the out-buildings. Neighbors help keep an eye on this valuable public place.
No need to damage or disassemble any structures to find this cache! Please respect this wonderful farm! Just go to the Chicken House, rotate the wooden door stopper, open the door, step inside the Chicken House, peek above your right shoulder, and you'll crush this cache. Cluck cluck!
