The Harvest Farm New Life Program: A Historical Journey

Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, located in the heart of Pennsylvania, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. In 1963, Alice Wicks and her husband opened the Quiet Valley Farm Museum to the public, marking the beginning of a new era for the farm. However, it was not until 1974 that the farm became the non-profit educational corporation it is today.

Prior to its transformation into an educational institution, the farm had been owned by the Wicks family for many years. Alice Wicks remained actively involved in the management of the museum even after her retirement in 2001 at the age of 85. Her dedication to preserving the farm's history and cultural significance was unparalleled.

In the early days, Sue and Gary Oiler, who were employed as the farm managers, played a crucial role in reconditioning the original farmhouse and 1850s barn. Their hard work and dedication helped to restore the property to its former glory. However, it was not until they discovered the historical significance of the site that their plans for development took a backseat.

The Wicks family soon realized that the farm's lack of modernization was actually a blessing in disguise. The absence of significant changes meant that many historic artifacts and furnishings remained intact, providing a unique opportunity to preserve the past. This realization led the Oiler family to reorient their efforts towards creating an educational program that would showcase the farm's rich history.

The Harvest Farm New Life Program was born out of this vision. Since its inception, the program has aimed to provide visitors with an immersive experience that highlights the lives and struggles of early American settlers. Through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and living history events, the program seeks to educate people about the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

Today, Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm remains a beloved institution in Pennsylvania, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The Harvest Farm New Life Program continues to thrive, thanks to the tireless efforts of its staff and volunteers. As we look back on the farm's history, it is clear that the journey from humble beginnings to a thriving educational institution has been marked by a deep commitment to preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.

Harvest farm new life program history