historic deerfield

Carefully preserved and authentically restored, Historic Deerfield is possibly one of the best documented towns in all of New England. Having relatives who settled in Deerfield in 1714, I was interested in researching to see what additional information I could find about the old homestead.To their credit, the Henry N. Flynt Library is open year-round (Tues. – Fri.) and has a wealth of information about the town and its former residents. Within minutes we were looking through old manuscripts, court records and receipts. Holding a receipt that was 300 years old was quite the treat.Museum of Early New England Life:Across Main Street, you’ll find another gem of an institution – the Flynt Center of Early New England Life. One of only a few new-looking buildings in this historic setting, this 27,000-square-foot structure houses galleries and exhibitions that are as well done as they are fascinating. Of particular interest to me was the furniture exhibit. Not merely a collection of antiques, this Crafting Early American Furniture exhibit looks at the construction and design of historic furniture styles, deconstructing them in ways such that everyone could see the work behind the artistry. This particular exhibit runs through 12/27/15.Other exhibits concentrated on diverse themes from colonial dress to powder horns. Upstairs in the “attic” were row after row of expertly displayed historical gems (toys, ceramics, chairs, weapons, etc.) each with an identifying number that could be further researched online. Very well done and very enjoyable, the center is open daily from 9:30 to 4:30 during the regular season, and on weekends only until April 18th. (Photography is allowed.)Historic home and craft tours:Visiting as we did in February, we weren’t able to tour the historic homes which are open and available during the regular season. Normally, 12 homes (1730 – 1850) filled with furniture, textiles and art can be seen and all the tours start at the Visitor Center at Hall Tavern.

One of the most beautiful areas in New England in my humble opinion. There is a nice prep school in town and there is a long, tree lined main street perfect for an autumn stroll. It is peaceful and relaxing and most unusual to find this meticulously preserved example of Colonial time. The homes are restored period homes and some are open during the summer/fall for tours. Fascinating piece of New England history describing some of the interactions between the settlers/farmers and the Native Americans. Don't miss this even if you only have time for a drive through--you will not be sorry.

We have been to Deerfield twice, and will undoubtedly go again. Deerfield gives you the chance to step back into life as it was when the country was still very young. Most of the beautifully preserved homes that you can tour are furnished with authentic pieces from the era, and although very simple by today's standards, those furnishings exhibit the fine craftsmanship that went into the prized possessions of each home.As you walk by the homes on the lovely tree-lined main avenue you can imagine yourself living in that peaceful village during Colonial times. Of course, it wasn't always peaceful. The early settlement was often beset by hostile raids and living there was a calculated risk for those brave souls who undertook to live there. How easy we have it now compared to then!If you love history you will want to spend time in Deerfield. It's a unique slice of early America preserved for the generations that have come after, one that enlightens, inspires and charms.

Historic Deerfield is a well preserved village from the '1700s' with several homes that you can tour. Some are self guided, some have guides. Our favorite was the silver shop which has an extensive collection of early American silver. They even have a few pieces made by Paul Revere. The guide there was awesome. She was very knowledgeable and obviously loved her job.The tours are seasonal so check first for available times. I think only one home and the museum are open just on weekends from Jan. to April.

An unplanned visit on the recommendation of a friend to stop off in Deerfield on a trip back from New England in the fall proved very interesting, educational and rewarding. The town is very old (for the US) dating back to raids by Canadian indians and a fortification reputed to be one of the last in the early days of the "occupation" of this part of the US. I have always thought US history as a little shallow but in Deerfiled you quickly see a longer time span in the houses, several museums and a well laid out tourist office. Most things happen on one main street but although a historical "monument" the town still has a lively student population and a good atmosphere. Limited accommodation and eateries but enough to keep you going while you absorb the very enlightening walk down memory lane. Well worth a stop off as part of a trip. Allow at least half a day - more if you are on an easy schedule

This little village was another wonderful surprise. The trip to western Massachusetts held no plans except to be with family. We took each day as it came and explored wherever the road took us. This particular day we saw a sign pointing to Historic Deerfield Village. What we found were living breathing homes of an era of Indians and farmers of the 18th century. The homes are thoroughly restored to their original glory days with period pieces. The docents were informative and knew stories of the original owners and the neighbors of the settlement. The tours of individual houses really explained what life was like during this period. The one room school house was also a hands on experience as we tried our hand with quill and ink. Not so easily done! But lots of fun. Give yourself at least half a day to explore, or a whole day if you want to do the guided tour of individual houses. We did half and half and staring out in the early afternoon and wish we had more time to explore.

The old colonial homes tell a story just by looking at them. Their size and functionality and beauty built by early craftsmen is a wonder,but admission can be pricey. Strolling on the old sidewalk can be just as rewarding.

Myself, my husband a another couple visited here during the holidays. We would have enjoyed seeing so much more but there is so much to see that if you were to take every guided house tour, every self-tour, eat at the Inn, then tour the the large museum with textiles and furniture (and an entire floor of - everything from surgical instruments to powder horns to chairs to china to toys to fans to = were they decoys??? - that are not in the houses at the present time but still, unlike any other museum I've ever been to, available for viewing) - and, during the holidays, stop and make a sachet, a letterpress card, see the open hearth cooking demonstration (sorry, no samples - Massachusetts law), take the wagon ride - it cannot be done in a day, period.Very quiet, stepping back into another time and, unlike Sturbridge Village or Henry Ford Village in Dearborn et al., somehow untouristy (although the museum shop has a good selection of items - beautiful quilling). The docents all seem to love their jobs. One woman we spoke to has been there since 1982 - these folks are very dedicated and knowledgeable.Not for most kids, despite the toys in the gift shop and the holiday activities. Some would find it different and thus fun, but it's mainly an adult place. If you want to take children I would suggest checking their web site because if they are having activities (like the holiday ones) there are things for kids to do then.

We toured here on a day when there were costumed volunteers. That was excellent for the grandchildren who saw wood carving, knitting, cooking, fiddle playing, sewing, basket weaving. It is similiar to Williamsburg on a smaller scale. The ticket price included admission to all the buildings and exhibits, 14..00 per adult, less for under 12. The restaurant is excellent but we did not eat there this time. And Deerfield Academy is on the grounds.

Historic Deerfield, Massachusetts, offers a one-mile strip of historic homes built in the 18th and 19th century, complete with authentic furnishings. Docents in the many of the houses provide guided tours, while others are self-guided tours. There are about 10 historic houses, plus the Deerfield Inn and the Museum Gift Shop and Book Store and a cooks's garden. The tour starts at the Visitor Center, where you pick up your map and get your ticket. Admission is $14 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 17, children under 6 are free. Admission is less during winter hours. One noticeable house is the Wells-Thorne House. Built in 1747, it is a bright blue color. The tour takes you through its entire history, from 1725 to 1850. I would suggest allowing a full day for the tour, a minimum of 2-3 hours. All of the houses are well preserved and interesting, well worth seeing. Lunch is available at the Inn or at a food wagon behind the Visitor Center.

Wish we could have had the whole day here, marvellous place. Unfortunately we had first visited the Yankee Candle factory which was good but the time would be better spent here. The houses are just amazing, it would have been great to have time to go inside. Do go to the visitor centre and watch the short film for information. This is 'old' America as I had hoped to see on this tour, we were not disappointed. What a privilege to live here and go to school here and you certainly have to be privileged with fees of $80k per year for boarders! Do go in the shop, lots of lovely things to buy. If you can pre-plan, stay longer than than you think you need, just drink it in, it is amazing! If you get bored at this historic place you are tired of Life!

Historic Deerfield pays homage to both the past and the present. From the past, there are several historic homes to tour (with very knowledgeable guides who help make the houses come alive), The Street to stroll, and the PVMA museum to visit (the other historical society in the village). For the present, there are shops where you can purchase souvenirs, the Deerfield Inn where you can stay and/or dine, two working farms, and two private schools (Bement and Deerfield Academy). Twice each year, the small village becomes crowded because of the two nationally recognized craft fairs sponsored by the PVMA. In the fall and spring, tourist take advantage of the beautiful foliage and new green that the seasons offer. For a relaxing, informative, and enjoyable attraction, Deerfield is well worth a visit.

Well worth a stop to experience how life was in the early settlement days. It is an active living community. A quiet and relaxing place to visit for a while.

This was a stop on our New England Tour and was fine for a bathroom break & to stretch your legs. We were sorry not to have had enough time to eat in the local restaurant as it looked lovely. The homes are very pretty but wouldn't bother visiting again.

Think Williamsburg without the commercialization and crowds. Historic Deerfield is a treasure -- preserved and decorated houses based on probate documents of the era, Indian raids, frontier struggles to agricultural riches -- Deerfield has it all. The docents welcome you with an excellent introduction to the many unique houses and shops that make history come alive. The walking tours fill in the details of life during the Revolutionary era and the days when Deerfield was settled on the known frontier. Don't miss the fascinating Flynt Center Museum where New England Colonial furniture is dissected to show how it was made. The museum has one of the best Colonial textile collections in the world.We took two days to see everything, drawn to the quality of the exhibits. Staying at the Deerfield Inn made it so easy to tour, take a break, and start up again. A wonderful experience all around.