Step back in time when you visit Wessels Living History Farm, a working farm of historical buildings that recreates Nebraska farming life from the 1920s. Learn about traditional farming techniques from the past and participate in farm chores such as gathering eggs from the poultry house.
Walk around the 145-acre (59-hectare) grounds to explore its old buildings such as the granary and a large windmill that is typical of those made in the early 20th century. Visit the 19th-century one-room schoolhouse and a 1905 church that was transferred to the farm from Thayer, Nebraska in 2014.
Investigate the large machine building which hosts a collection of old farm machinery and brightly colored and rusting tractors.
Go over to the York Area Agricultural Hall of Fame to read plaques about inductees and their contributions to farming. New plaques are added every year.
See animals such as pigs, chickens, cows, goats and mini horses. Take part in farm activities such as shelling corn, collecting eggs and feeding the animals. Test your own farming skills with old-fashioned farming equipment from the 1920s.
Coincide your visit with one of the farm's many events. These include Hall of Fame induction ceremonies, the Harvest Festival and the summer fair. The Planting Festival is popular occasion featuring tilling and planting demonstrations as well as farm skills challenges with prizes for the winners.
The farm is open every day except Monday from May through to September. Admission charges apply with discounts for senior citizens and students. There is no charge for children under school age. The rural attraction opens at other times in the year such as weekends during December. Check the farm's official website for up-to-date information on opening hours and details of its events calendar.
Wessels Living History Farm is located approximately 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) south of the town of York, Nebraska. Drive and use the free on-site parking spaces.
