FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NJ — The historic Howe Farmstead in Somerset County will celebrate its grand opening on Sunday, November 8, 2026, with a free public exhibition featuring historical demonstrations, agricultural activities, local artisans, and hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.
Located at 538 Elizabeth Avenue in Franklin Township's Colonial Park, the 294-year-old farmstead recently welcomed visitors for the first time in its history during Somerset County's annual Weekend Journey Through the Past. The event served as a preview of the property's transformation into a public destination dedicated to preserving and sharing the region's agricultural and cultural heritage.
The November 8 grand opening, scheduled from 10 AM to 4 PM, represents the culmination of months of planning and preparation. Dozens of vendors, historical exhibitors, reenactors, and craftspeople are expected to participate in the celebration, which coincides with the nation's 250th anniversary.
"We wanted representation from the three themes of the farm's future. History, of course, was at the forefront, with agriculture and the arts joining. We are looking to create a space for education and experience in all three realms seamlessly," explained Howe Project Chairwoman Rikki Lyn McCarthy. "And for the first time in the farm's 294-year history, on the 250th anniversary of the nation, we can proudly say, we did it."
Visitors will have opportunities to experience traditional crafts and agricultural practices through live blacksmithing demonstrations, fiber dyeing, apple butter churning, and interactive exhibits. The festivities will also feature farm-to-table vendors, gourmet pancakes prepared to order, historical reenactors, and commemorative art projects inviting visitors to contribute to the celebration of America's 250th anniversary.
A Historic Farmstead Preserved for Future Generations
Dating to approximately 1732, the Howe Farmstead is one of the historic agricultural properties preserved within Somerset County's Colonial Park. The original farmhouse is believed to have been constructed by a member of the Van Doren family, who owned property in the area. Representing the Dutch farmhouse architecture commonly found throughout 18th-century Somerset County, the original dwelling now serves as the kitchen wing of the larger farmhouse, which was expanded between approximately 1790 and 1810.
The property includes several historic agricultural structures, including a carriage house-corn crib, chicken house, hired man's house, and well.
The farmstead is perhaps best remembered as the longtime home of Dr. Eugene and Lois Howe, who resided on the property beginning in 1938. Dedicated to historic preservation and community enrichment, the Howes maintained and improved the property throughout their residency. In 1992, they donated the farmstead to Somerset County with the agreement that they could continue living in the farmhouse.
Their intention was to ensure that the historic property would be preserved and enjoyed by future generations. Lois Howe passed away in 1995, followed by Dr. Howe in 2008. The nearby athletic complex and nature trail also bear the Howe family name in recognition of their contributions to Colonial Park and the surrounding community.
The Somerset County Historical Society, in partnership with Somerset County, has worked to advance the restoration and preservation of the farmstead while developing plans for its future public use. These efforts seek to recreate the beauty and historical character of the original property while honoring the legacy of Dr. Eugene and Lois Howe.
The November 8 celebration represents a significant milestone in fulfilling the Howe family's vision for their beloved property.
Looking Toward the Future
Although the farmstead is opening its doors to the public, preservation and restoration efforts remain ongoing. Plans for the property's historic buildings and surrounding grounds are intended to support educational programming, agricultural activities, historical interpretation, artistic endeavors, and community engagement.
According to McCarthy, who serves as the project manager for historic restoration and preservation efforts at the Howe Farmstead on behalf of the Somerset County Historical Society, proposals for programming and property use in 2027 are now being accepted. Individuals and organizations interested in hosting educational activities, cultural events, agricultural programs, or other community initiatives are encouraged to submit their ideas.
Founded in 1882, the Somerset County Historical Society is dedicated to finding, saving, and sharing the history of Somerset County, New Jersey.
The grand opening and exhibition day is free and open to the public. Additional vendors and exhibitors are continuing to join the celebration.
Event Information
What: Howe Farmstead Grand Opening & Exhibition Day
When: Sunday, November 8, 2026, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: New Howe Farm Carriage Barn, 538 Elizabeth Avenue, Somerset, NJ 08873 (Colonial Park)
Admission: Free and open to the public
Access: Visitors should use the long driveway inside Colonial Park.
For More Information:
Somerset County Historical Society
Website: SomersetHistoryNJ.org
Phone: 908-218-1281
Email: schshowefarm@gmail.com
Requests for 2027 programming opportunities and property use may also be directed to schshowefarm@gmail.com.
The event is made possible through funding from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey Historical Commission.
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