Learn about the past, present, and future of the nine historic barns of Retreat Farm.
AUG
21
During the tour, you’ll be introduced to our farm animals, walk the labyrinth garden, view art installations, and hear the fascinating stories of the Farm.
Afterward, grab a maple creemee and stay for the Music Under the Stars concert as Keith Murphy and Becky Tracy bring the Square to life with traditional Celtic, French, and Canadian music and vocals.
Tour: 5 pm to 6 pm
Music Under the Stars Concert: 6:30 pm to 8 pm
History of the Farm
Retreat Farm was the original working farm of the Brattleboro Retreat.
The farm and trails provided the food and fuel for the Brattleboro Retreat and served as a primary venue for patient therapy through work on the land and time in nature.
In the late 20th century, changes in mental health practice, food service provision, and government policy made the Farm no longer viable for the Brattleboro Retreat.
In 2001, the Windham Foundation took ownership of the property, joining forces with the Brattleboro Retreat, the Vermont Land Trust, Preservation Trust of Vermont, Vermont Housing and Conservation Board to preserve forever the remaining 612 acres of farm and forested land, the iconic farm structures, and the Farm’s founding principles.
A prominent feature of the region for 180 years, the Farm today encompasses 500 acres of conserved forests, farmlands, trails, and waterways, and an historic nine-structure Farmstead. Retreat Farm sits adjacent to downtown Brattleboro, a gateway to Vermont and the geographic center of New York and New England.
The nonprofit Retreat Farm, Ltd. was formed in 2015 to restore the lands and structures and establish a vibrant program of education, stewardship, and community gatherings. By connecting people to the land and one another, Retreat Farm is helping to ensure a healthy future for the region.