Laura C.
Yelp
In spite of the heat, we enjoyed a lively group touring with a terrific docent at Farmstead Heritage Museum in Plano last weekend. Do Go Here!! This daily tour is amazing! Certainly one of the best we have ever been part of for a Victorian homestead and farm. Our docent was an enthusiastic retired history teacher and he loves this place. We are fans, too, now!
Once a 360 acre farm, Hunter and Mary Alice Farrell built their home here in 1891 along Plano's Pitman Creek. After their daughter Ammie Wilson died in 1972, the property which had been willed to an orphanage, was eventually sold to Plano and the 4.6 acre homestead next to the creek became a museum in 1986.
Hunter Farrell was already a wealthy man in the gravel industry. As each new technology or invention became available, Hunter Farrell wanted it for their home. The home was built originally without electricity or plumbing; but both were eventually added. The farm was run by a farm manager who lived only a few yards away and not by Mr. Farrell. Ammie Farrell Wilson raised award winning sheep and didn't farm the land either. The farm and farm buildings were well cared for though - perfect for becoming a museum.
Outside and behind the Farrell-Wilson Farmstead Heritage Victorian home are a dozen outbuildings. The farm is planted cottage garden style with flowers and vegetables. They have festivities throughout the year with demonstrations and special activities.
There are farm animals here year round. I was struck by how clean the grounds and pens were here. They had multiple chicken coops, two large adult goats, lamb and sheep pens, and a donkey; I didn't really smell or even see much manure. My husband LOVES donkeys. Pancho the donkey apparently loves people. He'd like them even better if they came bearing treats.
The interior of the home is immaculate and temperature controlled throughout. The time period wall paper restoration is very impressive and all areas of the home are able to be seen.
We thoroughly enjoyed the hour and a half tour. The docent was knowledgeable and answered everyone's questions. I highly recommend this experience. There are stairs involved. There is a fee to tour the home. You may enjoy the grounds for free during museum hours any time.
http://planomagazine.com/heritage-farmstead-museum/ is an excellent article detailing the activities held at the Homestead Museum.