Learn About Our History
Join us as we honor the past and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the land and the people who have shaped it. Thank you for visiting, and we look forward to sharing our journey with you!​
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Our Roots
The Brookside Farm Museum has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. It serves as a window into the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the agricultural and domestic life of that era. The museum is a testament to the dedication of the townspeople and history enthusiasts who have contributed artifacts, preserving the heritage of the region. Managed by the Brookside Farm Museum Commission and the Friends of Brookside Farm Museum, the museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, sharing the compelling family stories of the house's former residents and farm workers. With rotating exhibits, the museum vividly portrays the agricultural history of Southeastern Connecticut from 1845-1955. Our journey is to provide an immersive and educational experience, bringing history to life through engaging storytelling and interactive displays.
Our Recent Name Change
On July 3, 1976, the Smith-Harris House was dedicated as a town museum in East Lyme, CT. The Greek Revival style farmhouse is believed to have been built in 1845 for Thomas Avery and his bride, Elizabeth Brace Griswold. In 2018, members of the Commission and the Friends of the Smith-Harris House, requested and received approval by the Town Selectmen to change the name of the Commission and ultimately the house to Brookside Farm Museum, which better aligned with a recent strategic plan and renewed vision.
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On June 8, 2019, members of the Brookside Farm Commission and Friends of the Brookside Farm Museum revealed their new logo to members of the East Lyme Community.
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While it is on the National Register of Historic Houses as the Thomas Avery House, the Avery family eventually sold the property to William H. H. Smith, a distant cousin, who in turn, sold it to his brother Herman Smith and nephew Frank Harris in 1921. These gentlemen, married to sisters Lula and Florence Munger, ran a dairy farm on the property for many years known as Brookside Farm.
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In the 1950s, the Town of East Lyme bought the home and 103 acres from Smith and Harris, giving the two couples lifetime rights. In 1974, after the house had been boarded up for several years, and at the urging of concerned citizens, a successful restoration process was begun.
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Today, Brookside Farm Museum offers a historical and educational view of agricultural and domestic life from 1845-1955. Managed by the Brookside Farm Museum Commission and the Friends of Brookside Farm Museum, a variety of events are offered throughout the year that convey the family stories of the people who resided in the house and worked the farm. Rotating exhibits are also displayed to demonstrate agricultural history in Southeastern Connecticut during this time period.
Bridging History and Sustainability
Our Heritage
The Brookside Farm Museum is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Houses, which recognizes properties of historical significance in the United States. This designation helps preserve the cultural heritage of our nation by identifying and protecting sites that reflect our history and architectural heritage. The museum, originally known as the Smith-Harris House, showcases the agricultural and domestic life of the 19th and early 20th centuries, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past through its preserved artifacts and exhibits.
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In addition to its historical significance, the Brookside Farm Museum is also part of the Home Grown National Park initiative. This initiative aims to create a network of green spaces across the country that promote biodiversity and environmental stewardship. By participating in this program, the museum is committed to enhancing its grounds to support local ecosystems and educate the community about sustainable practices. This dual focus on historical preservation and environmental responsibility makes the Brookside Farm Museum a vital resource for both history enthusiasts and nature advocates alike.
