Wessels Living History Farm
David Wessels lived from 1917 to 1993, and was involved in farming most of his life. He believed that present and future generations would benefit from knowledge of what it was like to farm in his lifetime. He wanted people to know how the York farm community lived, worked, survived drought, went to war, took advantage of new technology, and raised families. Mr. Wessels realized that the local farmer has an impact on the international food market.
When David Wessels passed away, he left a large portion of his estate to the York Community Foundation, including 160 acres of farm ground. In his will, he directed that the Foundation use proceeds from the sale of assets for agricultural education to create a living history farm to be constructed on a portion of the 160 acre farm. The farm is located in York County, one-half mile south of the interchange of interstate 80 and highway 81.
In 1995, a committee of citizens was established to formulate a plan for developing the Living History Farm. Over a five year period, the committee developed two primary objectives for achieving educational goals.
The first objective was creation of an educational web site. In February 2003, the web site was unveiled to the public. The web site is a comprehensive educational history of farming in York County, beginning with the 1920’s and continuing by decade to present day. The web site features video taped interviews of people who share their experiences of life on the farm in rural Nebraska. To help carry out David Wessels’ wish, to educate youth about farming during his lifetime, the web site has a Learner’s Resources section that is designed to provide classroom teachers and students with lesson plans that can be used in formal education situations. For more information, visit the web site at www.livinghistoryfarm.org.
The second objective was development of a 1920’s period physical farm site. Work completed to date at the farm site includes a house, garage, barn, granary, and a large windmill. The grand opening for the farm was held in October 2005. Since the grand opening, special events are held each year. The 2010 special events include: June 5th – Family Fun Day 10:00 to 4:00 and Barn Dance – noon to dark; July 18th – Model A’s on the Farm - 1:00 - 4:00; August 15th - Living History Activities on the Farm - 1:00 - 4:00; October 2nd & 3rd - Tractor, Engine & Vintage Auto Show – 10:00 - 4:00 except on October 2nd, there will be a Barn Dance from 4:30p.m. to dark; October 24th - Boo on the Farm - 1:30 - 3:30; and December 11th through December 22nd – Christmas on the Farm - 1:00 - 4:00p.m.
The address for the Wessels Living History Farm is 5520 South Lincoln Avenue, York, NE 68467. The farm is open to the public from May 1st through October 31st, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00a.m. - 4:00p.m., and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. For questions about the farm site, including educational programs, tours of the farm, special programs, or to rent the farm for parties, reunions, weddings or other special events, contact Dale Clark at 402-710-0682.
