Come explore John Jay Homestead State Historic Site, an original American Experience.
Experience American History at the home of Founding Father John Jay and 5 successive generations of the Jay family. Do you want to learn, from a first-hand source, about the birth of our nation? Founding Father, John Jay, can enlighten you. Do the origins and changes of the antislavery movement pique your interest? You will gain perspective from John Jay’s son and grandson who were at the forefront of the movement. Discover the stories of the slaves who lived at John Jay Homestead before the family championed the abolition cause. Do you wonder what life was like for early 19th century women? John Jay’s daughters have a story to tell.
Experience important furniture and decorative arts
Admire the chairs used by the first United States Senate; see a John Singer Sergent portrait hanging in the Ballroom, a Houdon bust of John Paul Jones, and the Biennais mirror owned by Marie Louise, the second wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. These original objects and many more can be found in John Jay Homestead’s collection. Return often to see a current, beautifully curated special exhibit.
Experience John Jay’s Bedford Farm
Enter the Carriage Barn Education & Visitor Center where you will begin to learn about John Jay Homestead through videos, state-of-the-art computer programs and interactive educational displays. Many of the original farm buildings exist today. Did you know that draft horses were the tractors of the 19th century farm? At the Restored Draft Horse Barn imagine life on the farm, plowing the fields. What was it like to be a child in the 19th century? Walk up to the one room Schoolhouse and imagine yourself with chalk and board in hand.
Experience the great outdoors
We have 62 acres –walk to the ice pond stocked with fish and down the beech allée. Stroll through the beautiful Sun Dial Garden, Herb Garden, and Terrace Garden. In the winter, come and cross country ski or snow shoe. During the spring and summer, bring a picnic and spend the day. On Saturdays, in the summer and fall, shop our regionally acclaimed Farm Market.
Experience the agricultural past
Peer into the chicken coop; see the heritage breed chickens. Come see the community garden and bee hives and feel the connection with the Homestead’s agricultural past. Visit the Red Barn Discovery Center to milk our “cow,” Buttercup.
Experience great programming and events
The annual Scholars Lecture Series brings world renowned authors and historians to the site. Our signature Barn Dance offers families an energetic start to autumn. Attend tours, special exhibits, and lunches highlighting the Homestead’s collection. The outstanding education department offers standards-based school programs, produces children’s and family events throughout the year, and hosts a popular history camp in the summer.
Experience an original American Experience.
